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5 Best Travel Cards for South Korea

Getting an international travel card before you travel to South Korea can make it cheaper and more convenient when you spend in South Korean Won. You'll be able to easily top up your card in USD before you leave the US, to convert seamlessly to KRW for secure and flexible spending and withdrawals.

This guide walks through our picks of the best travel cards available for anyone from the US heading to South Korea, like Wise or Revolut. We'll walk through a head to head comparison, and a detailed look at their features, benefits and drawbacks.

5 best travel money cards for South Korea:

Let's kick off our roundup of the best travel cards for South Korea with a head to head comparison on important features. Here's an overview of the providers we've picked to look at, for customers looking for ways to spend conveniently overseas when travelling from the US:

Each of the international travel cards we’ve picked out have their own features and fees, which may mean they suit different customer needs. Keep reading to learn more about the features, advantages and disadvantages of each - plus a look at how to order the travel card of your choice before you head off to South Korea.

Wise travel card

Open a Wise account online or in the Wise app, to order a Wise travel card you can use for convenient spending and withdrawals in South Korea. Wise accounts can hold 40+ currencies, so you can top up in USD easily from your bank or using your card. Whenever you travel, to South Korea or beyond, you’ll have the option to convert to the currency you need in advance if it’s supported for holding a balance, or simply let the card do the conversion at the point of payment.

In either case you’ll get the mid-market exchange rate with low, transparent fees whenever you spend in KRW, plus some free ATM withdrawals every month - perfect if you’re looking for easy ways to arrange your travel cash.

Wise features

Wise travel card pros and cons.

• Hold and exchange 40+ currencies with the mid-market rate
• Spend seamlessly in KRW when you travel
• Some free ATM withdrawals every month, for those times only cash will do
• Ways to receive payments to your Wise account conveniently
• Manage your account and card from your phone
• 9 USD delivery fee for your first card
• ATM fees apply once you've exhausted your monthly free withdrawals
• Physical cards may take 14 - 21 days to arrive

How to apply for a Wise card

Here’s how to apply for a Wise account and order a Wise  travel card in the US:

Open the Wise app or desktop site

Select Register and confirm you want to open a personal account

Register with your email, Facebook, Apple or Google ID

Upload your ID document to complete the verification step

Tap the Cards tab to order your card

Pay the one time 9 USD fee, confirm your mailing address, and your card will be on the way, and should arrive in 14 - 21 days

Revolut travel card

Choose a Revolut account, from the Standard plan which has no monthly fee, to higher tier options which have monthly charges but unlock extra features and benefits. All accounts come with a smart Revolut card you can use in South Korea, with some no fee ATM withdrawals and currency conversion monthly, depending on the plan you pick. Use your Revolut account to hold and exchange 25+ currencies, and get extras like account options for under 18s, budgeting tools and more.

Revolut features

Revolut travel card pros and cons.

• Pick the Revolut account plan that suits your spending needs
• Hold and exchange 25+ currencies, and spend in 150 countries
• Accounts come with different card types, depending on which you select
• All accounts have some no fee currency exchange and some no fee ATM withdrawals monthly
• Some account tiers have travel perks like complimentary or discounted lounge access
• You need to upgrade to an account with a monthly fee to get all account features
• Delivery fees may apply for your travel card
• Fair usage limits apply once you exhaust your currency conversion and ATM no fee allowances
• Out of hours currency conversion has additional fees

How to apply for a Revolut card

Set up your Revolut account before you leave the US and order your travel card. Here’s how:

Download and open the Revolut app

Register by adding your personal and contact information

Follow the prompts to confirm your address and order your card

Pay any required delivery fee - costs depend on your account type

Chime travel card

Use your Chime account and card to spend in South Korea with no foreign transaction fee. You’ll just need to load a balance in USD and then the money is converted to KRW instantly with the Visa rate whenever you spend or make a withdrawal. There’s a fee to make an ATM withdrawal out of network, which sits at 2.5 USD, but there are very few other costs to worry about. Plus you can get lots of extra services from Chime if you need them, such as ways to save.

Chime features

Chime travel card pros and cons.

• No Chime foreign transaction fees
• No ongoing charges for your account
• Lots of extra products and services if you need them
• Easy ways to manage your money online and in app
• Virtual cards available
• You'll need to inform Chime you're traveling to use your card abroad
• Low ATM limits
• Cards take 7 - 10 days to arrive by mail

How to apply for a Chime card

Here’s how to apply for a Chime account and order a travel card in the US:

Visit the Chime website or download the app

Click Get started and add your personal details

Add a balance

Your card will be delivered in the mail and you can use your virtual card instantly

Monzo travel card

Monzo cards can be ordered easily in the US and used for spending in South Korea and globally. Monzo accounts are designed for holding USD only - but you can spend in KRW and pretty much any other currency easily, with no foreign transaction fee. Your funds are just converted using the network exchange rate whenever you pay or make a withdrawal.

Monzo doesn’t usually apply ATM fees, but it’s worth knowing that the operator of the specific ATM you pick may have their own costs you’ll need to check out.

Monzo features

Monzo travel card pros and cons.

• Good selection of services available
• No foreign transaction fee to pay
• No Monzo ATM fee to pay
• Manage your card from your phone conveniently
• Deposits are FDIC protected
• You can't hold a foreign currency balance
• ATM operators might apply their own fees

How to apply for a Monzo card

Here’s how to apply for a Monzo account and order a travel card in the US:

Visit the Monzo website or download the app

Click Get Sign up and add your personal details

Check and confirm your mailing address and your card will be delivered in the mail

Netspend travel card

Netspend has a selection of prepaid debit cards you can use for spending securely in South Korea. While these cards don’t usually let you hold a balance in KRW, they’re popular with travelers as they’re not linked to your regular checking account. That increases security overseas - plus, Netspend offers virtual cards you can use to hide your physical card details from retailers if you want to.

The options with Netspend vary a lot depending on the card you pick. Usually you can top up digitally or in cash in USD and then spend overseas with a fixed foreign transaction fee applying every time you spend in a foreign currency. You’ll be able to view the terms and conditions of your specific card - including the fees - online, by entering the code you’ll find when your card is sent to you.

Netspend features

Netspend travel card pros and cons.

• Large selection of different card options depending on your needs
• Some cards have no overseas ATM fees
• Prepaid card which is secure to use overseas
• Manage your account in app
• Change from one card plan to another if you need to
• You may pay a monthly fee for your card
• Some cards have foreign transaction fees for all overseas use, which can be around 4%
• Selection of fees apply depending on the card you pick

How to apply for a Netspend card

Here’s how to apply for a Netspend account and order a travel card in the US:

Visit the Netspend website

Click Apply now

Complete the details, following the onscreen prompts

Get verified

Your card will arrive by mail - add a balance and activate it to get started

What is a travel money card?

A travel money card is a card you can use for secure and convenient payments and withdrawals overseas.

You can use a travel money card to tap and pay in stores and restaurants, with a wallet like Apple Pay, or to make ATM withdrawals so you'll always have a bit of cash in your pocket when you travel.

Although there are lots of different travel money cards on the market, all of which are unique, one similarity you'll spot is that the features and fees have always been optimised for international use. That might mean you get a better exchange rate compared to using your normal card overseas, or that you run into fewer fees for common international transactions like ATM withdrawals.

Travel money cards also offer distinct benefits when it comes to security. Your travel money card isn't linked to your United States Dollar everyday account, so even if you were unlucky and had your card stolen, your primary bank account remains secure.

Travel money vs prepaid card vs travel credit card

It's helpful to know that you'll be able to pick from several different types of travel cards, depending on your priorities and preferences. Travel cards commonly include:

• Travel debit cards
• Travel prepaid cards
• Travel credit cards

They all have distinct benefits when you head off to South Korea or elsewhere in the world, but they do work a bit differently.

Travel debit and prepaid cards are usually linked to an online account, and may come from specialist digital providers - like the Wise card. These cards are usually flexible and cheap to use. You'll be able to manage your account and card through an app or on the web.

Travel credit cards are different and may suit different customer needs. As with any other credit card, you may need to pay an annual fee or interest and penalties depending on how you manage your account - but you could also earn extra rewards when spending in a foreign currency, or travel benefits like free insurance for example. Generally using a travel credit card can be more expensive compared to a debit or prepaid card - but it does let you spread out the costs of your travel across several months if you'd like to and don't mind paying interest to do so.

What is a prepaid travel money card best for?

Let's take a look at the advantages of using a prepaid travel money card for travellers going to South Korea. While each travel card is a little different, you'll usually find some or all of the following benefits:

• Hold and exchange foreign currencies - allowing you to lock in exchange rates and set a travel budget before you leave
• Convenient for spending in person and through mobile wallets like Apple Pay, as well as for cash withdrawals
• You may find you get a better exchange rate compared to your bank - and you'll usually be able to avoid any foreign transaction fee, too
• Travel cards are secure as they're not linked to your everyday USD account - and because you can make ATM withdrawals when you need to, you can also avoid carrying too much cash at once

Overall, travel cards offer flexible and low cost ways to avoid bank foreign transaction and international ATM fees, while accessing decent exchange rates.

How to choose the best travel card for South Korea

We've picked out 5 great travel cards available in the US - but there are also more options available, which can make choosing a daunting task. Some things to consider when picking a travel card for South Korea include:

• What exchange rates does the card use? Choosing one with the mid-market rate or as close as possible to it is usually a smart plan
• What fees are unavoidable? For example, ATM charges or top up fees for your preferred top up methods
• Does the card support a good range of currencies? Getting a card which allows you to hold and spend in KRW can give you the most flexibility, but it's also a good idea to pick a card with lots of currency options, so you can use it again in future, too
• Are there any other charges? Check in particular for foreign transaction fees, local ATM withdrawal fees, inactivity fees and account close fees

Ultimately the right card for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.

What makes a good travel card for South Korea

The best travel debit card for South Korea really depends on your personal preferences and how you like to manage your money.

Overall, it pays to look for a card which lets you minimise fees and access favourable exchange rates - ideally the mid-market rate. While currency exchange rates do change all the time, the mid-market rate is a good benchmark to use as it’s the one available to banks when trading on wholesale markets. Getting this rate, with transparent conversion fees, makes it easier to compare costs and see exactly what you’re paying when you spend in KRW.

Other features and benefits to look out for include low ATM withdrawal fees, complimentary travel insurance, airport lounge access or emergency cash if your card is stolen. It’s also important to look into the security features of any travel card you might pick for South Korea. Look for a card which uses 2 factor authentication when accessing the account app, which allows you to set instant transaction notifications, and which has easy ways to freeze, unfreeze and cancel your card with your phone.

For South Korea in particular, choosing a card which offers contactless payments and which is compatible with mobile wallets like Apple Pay could be a good plan. Card payments are extremely popular in South Korea - so having a card which lets you tap and pay easily can speed things up and make it more convenient during your trip.

Ways to pay in South Korea

Cash and card payments - including contactless, mobile wallet, debit, credit and prepaid card payments - are the most popular ways to pay globally.

In South Korea card payments are common in most situations. You’ll be able to make Chip and PIN or contactless payments or use your favourite mobile wallet like Apple Pay to tap and pay on the go. It’s still worth having a little cash on you just in case - and for the odd situations where cash is more convenient, such as when tipping or buying a small item in a market.

Which countries use KRW?

You’ll find that KRW can only be used in South Korea. If you don’t travel to South Korea frequently it’s worth thinking carefully about how much to exchange so you’re not left with extra foreign currency after your trip. Or pick a travel card from a provider like Wise or Revolut which lets you leave your money in USD and convert at the point of payment with no penalty.

What should you be aware of when travelling to South Korea

You’re sure to have a great time in South Korea - but whenever you’re travelling abroad it's worth putting in a little advance thought to make sure everything is organised and your trip goes smoothly. Here are a few things to think about:

1. Double check the latest entry requirements and visas - rules can change abruptly, so even if you’re been to South Korea before it’s worth looking up the most recent entry requirements so you don’t have any hassle on the border

2. Plan your currency exchange and payment methods - you can change USD to KRW before you travel to South Korea if you’d like to, but as card payments are common, and ATMs widely available, you can actually leave it until you arrive to get everything sorted as long as you have a travel money card. Top up your travel money card in USD and either exchange to KRW in advance or at the point of payment, and make ATM withdrawals whenever you need cash. Bear in mind that currency exchange at the airport will be expensive - so hold on until you reach South Korea to make an ATM withdrawal in KRW if you can.

3. Get clued up on any health or safety concerns - get travel insurance before you leave the US so you have peace of mind. It’s also worth reading up on any common scams or issues experienced by tourists. These tend to change over time, but may include things like rip off taxis or tour agents which don’t offer fair prices or adequate services.

Conclusion - Best travel cards for South Korea

Ultimately the best travel card for your trip to South Korea will depend on how you like to manage your money. Use this guide to get some insights into the most popular options out there, and to decide which may suit your specific needs.

How does a South Korean Won card work?

Getting a South Korean Won card can make managing your money easier when you travel to South Korea.

Your South Korean Won card will be linked to a digital account you can manage from your phone, so you'll always be able to see your balance, get transaction notifications and manage your card no matter where you are. Just add money to your account in pounds, and - depending on your preferences and the specific card you pick - you can either convert your balance to South Korean Won instantly, or just let the card do the conversion when you spend or make a withdrawal.

If your card gives you the option to hold a South Korean Won balance, there's not normally any extra fee to spend the South Korean Won you have in your account when you're in South Korea.

Can I withdraw South Korean Won currency with my card in South Korea?

With some cards, you'll be able to add money to your card in United States Dollar, and then convert to South Korean Won instantly online or in your card's app.

Once you have a balance in South Korean Won you can spend with your card with no extra fees - just tap and pay as you would at home. You'll also be able to make cash withdrawals whenever you need to, with no extra conversion fee to pay. Your card - or the ATM operator - may charge a withdrawal fee, but this can still be a cheap, secure and convenient option for getting cash when you need it.

With other cards, you can't hold a balance in South Korean Won on your card - but you can leave your money in United States Dollar and let the card convert your money for you when you spend and withdraw.

Some fees may apply here - including currency conversion or foreign transaction charges - so do compare a few different cards before you sign up, to make sure you're picking the one which best suits your specific spending needs.

Bear in mind though, that not all cards support all currencies - and the range of currencies available with any given card can change from time to time. If your card doesn't let you hold a balance in South Korean Won you might find that fees apply when you spend in South Korea, so it's well worth double checking your card's terms and conditions - and comparing the options available from other providers - before you travel, just in case.

Why should I get a South Korean Won card?

Getting a South Korean Won card means you can spend like a local when you're in South Korea. You'll be able to check your South Korean Won balance at a glance, add and convert money on the move, and use your card for secure spending and withdrawals whenever you need to. Best of all, South Korean Won cards from popular providers often offer good exchange rates and low, transparent fees, which can mean your money goes further when you're on a trip abroad.

FAQ - best travel cards for South Korea

When you use a travel money card you may find there’s an ATM withdrawal fee from your card issuer, and there may also be a cost applied by the ATM operator. Some of our travel cards - like the Wise and Revolut card options - have some no fee ATM withdrawals every month, which can help keep down costs.

Travel money cards may be debit, prepaid or credit cards. Which is best for you will depend on your personal preferences. Debit and prepaid cards are usually pretty cheap and secure to spend with, while credit cards may have higher fees but often come with extra perks like free travel insurance and extra reward points.

There’s no single best prepaid card for international use. Look out for one which supports a large range of currencies, with good exchange rates and low fees. This guide can help you compare some popular options, including Wise, Revolut and Monzo.

Yes, you can use your local debit card when you’re overseas. However, it’s common to find extra fees apply when spending in foreign currencies with a regular debit card. These can include foreign transaction fees and international ATM charges.

Usually having a selection of ways to pay - including a travel card, your credit or debit card, and some cash - is the best bet. That means that no matter what happens, you have an alternative payment method you can use conveniently.

Yes. Most travel debit cards have options to make ATM withdrawals. Check the fees that apply as card charges do vary a lot. Some cards have local and international fees on all withdrawals, while others like Wise and Revolut, let you make some no fee withdrawals monthly before a fee kicks in.

Both Visa and Mastercard are globally accepted. Look out for the logo on ATMs and payment terminals in South Korea.

The cards you see on this page are ordered as follows:

For card providers that publish their exchange rates on their website, we used their USD / KRW rate to calculate how much South Korean Won you would receive when exchanging / spending $4,000 USD. The card provider offering the most KRW is displayed at the top, the next highest below that, and so on.

The rates were collected at 09:36:26 GMT on 25 May 2024.

Below this we display card providers for which we could not verify their exchange rates. These are displayed in alphabetical order.

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More travel card guides.

2024 Korea Tourist Card Guide: Transport, Shopping & More!

We regret not preparing our Korea tourist cards including the T-Money Card as well as other travel essentials such as the  SIM card , eSIM , and pocket WiFi on our previous Korea trips. We just winged it and thought we could easily buy them upon arrival anyway.

Don’t be like us – it pays to have these Korea travel essentials ready before your trip. This will save you the hassle of having to look for stores offering them in Korea. And, you may actually save on costs since you can strategically plan your Korea itinerary with all the benefits in mind.

Best Korea tourist cards for transportation, shopping, and e-money

1. t-money card.

It’s a no-brainer. A T-Money Card should be the first thing that you should prepare before your Korea trip. It is the most popular Korea transport card with the largest number of affiliated partners. You can mainly use your T-Money Card to pay for public transportation like trains, buses, and taxis. Aside from that, you may also use it to pay at convenience stores, vending machines, and retail brands.

Read our T-Money Card guide for more information on the costs, where to buy, and benefits.

BUY T-MONEY CARD

Cashless payments are a thing in South Korea. In fact, many stores no longer accept cash payments. With the WOWPASS , you can use it as a prepaid debit card to pay for your purchases in Korea. Aside from that, it also serves as a Korea transport card so you can pay for public transportation including trains, buses, and taxis. You can top-up, withdraw, or exchange currencies at machines found in airports, subways, and even hotels.

This special Korea tourist card offers better exchange rates than banks, airports, or money changers, and accepts 16 currencies including USD, EUR, SGD, HKD, and even PHP. What’s even better is that it also offers brand cashback benefits, which is really great for tourists who love shopping and dining in Korea. You can check your balance, history, and benefits by downloading the WOWPASS mobile app .

BUY WOWPASS

3. NAMANE Card

A NAMANE Card is a prepaid travel card in Korea you can use as payment for transport and offline purchases. But what sets this card apart from the rest is that it is customizable. This means you can design your own card, making it a cute souvenir item from Korea .

Another advantage of this Korea tourist card is that there is no authentication needed and no limit to who can use the card, so even minors can use it. You may download the NAMANE Card app to check your balance and transactions.

BUY NAMANE CARD

Best Korea tourist cards and passes for attractions

4. discover seoul pass.

If you are mainly exploring the capital city of Seoul and nearby places, we highly recommend that you get a Discover Seoul Pass . With this Korea tourist card, you get FREE or discounted access to over 100 tourist attractions in Seoul and beyond like Lotte World , N Seoul Tower , Nami Island , and so much more!

Choose from 24-hour, 48-hour, or 72-hour validity, depending on your trip duration. The card itself also serves as your Korea transport card where you can top-up to pay for public transport.

Check out our Discover Seoul Pass guide where we discussed the benefits, costs, and sample itinerary in greater detail.

BUY DISCOVER SEOUL PASS

5. Klook Seoul Pass

If you are staying longer in Korea, we recommend the Klook Seoul Pass as it is valid for 30 days. You can handpick the top attractions you want to visit without squeezing them into a number of days like the Discover Seoul Pass, which will force you to use it within 24 hours to 72 hours, depending on what you avail.

With the Klook Seoul Pass, you have the freedom to pick the attractions you want to visit and when to visit them. Choose from 2, 3, or 4-attraction passes and get up to 52% discount. Some of the top attractions include Everland, Nami Island, N Seoul Tower, Lotte World, and COEX Aquarium to name a few.

BUY KLOOK SEOUL PASS

Korea travel essentials for communication and connectivity

6. korea sim card.

South Korea is one of the countries with the fastest internet speed so you are assured that the data from their SIM cards are of top quality. If you are traveling solo or as a couple, we recommend that you get a SIM card since it’s handy and more efficient than getting another device like a pocket WiFi. You can even get an eSIM if you don’t want to insert another SIM card into your mobile phone.

There are various Korea SIM card options to choose from. You may read our Korea SIM card guide so you can compare the prices and advantages.

BUY KOREA eSIM

7. Korea Pocket WiFi

If you are traveling in groups, we suggest that you get a pocket WiFi instead since it can be shared with up to 5 devices. A pocket WiFi actually costs less than a SIM card, but there are also disadvantages to it like the battery life may only last for 7 to 9 hours, and you need to physically return the device before you fly back home.

You may read our Korea pocket WiFi guide so you can see the costs and benefits before making a decision.

RENT POCKET WIFI

These are some of the best Korea tourist cards, transportation cards, and travel items we wished we paid more attention to and actually bought when we went to Korea. So, if we were you, secure your Korea tourist card ahead and you’ll thank us later!

Before you go, you may be interested to read our 5-day Korea winter itinerary , 5-day Korea spring itinerary , and Korean street food guide .

A single card from public transport to payment!

Korea travel card.

Top 6 Benefits

Korea's representative bank card, Transit Cards

Easy charging

Unlimited cashback & benefits

Free online reservation service

Free refunds

Pay like a korean with a card from korea's representative bank card, pay at 5 million stores nationwide.

KOREA TRAVEL CARD's online and offline payments use the using the card network of Korea's leading bank

Rail+ Transit Card

Nationwide buses, subways, and taxis.

National buses, Seoul/Jeju City Tour Bus, Airport Limousine

National Subway

National Taxi

KTX•Saemaeul• Mugunghwa•ITX Cheongchun•Nuriro, etc

National Express Bus terminal

National Expressway Corporation toll booths, private toll booths

*You can charge your transit balance at subway transit card charging terminals, CU convenience stores, and kiosks.

Charge anywhere, as much as you want!

Online charging via app, convenience stores and kiosks nationwide.

Support online recharge via APP WeChat pay, Visa, Master, Amex, Union Pay

Charge at over 14,000 CU convenience stores nationwide

Charge at 80 kiosks in major cities/tourist spots nationwide

Zero recharge fees, zero payment fees

4% wechat pay fee waived.

Get the best exchange rate with WeChat Pay recharge, and 4% cash back on the fees you pay.

Through the use of KB Bank Card in Korea Free payment fees in Korea

Up to 20% cash back

At partner stores, 0.2% unlimited cash back, on every purchase.

10,000 partner stores

Nationwide provision of, reservation services.

Zero refund fee

REDTABLE Gaeyang Building 7F, Myeongdong 3-gil 6, Jung-gu, Seoul, Republic of Korea Tel : +82-2-6964-7955 Corporate Registration Number : 206-86-50534 Mail-order Registration Number : 2022-Seoul Jung-gu-1568 Tourist Business Operator Registration Number : 2022-000073 @Copyright KOREA TRAVEL CARD. All Rights Reserved.

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• Tourism information by region
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Korea’s public transportation system is well-known for being convenient, inexpensive and clean. The KOREA TOUR CARD is a transit card for international tourists. Use it to pay for different types of public transport and enjoy a wide range of benefits offered by some 160 tourist attractions, performance venues, restaurants, shops, and many others in South Korea!

Going to visit Busan, Yeosu, Tongyeong, or other southern coastal areas? Use KOREA TOUR CARD Namhaean Coast. Some 200 benefits offered by existing KOREA TOUR CARD affiliates and by special attractions of the Namhaean coast are waiting for you.

How to purchase KOREA TOUR CARD

• KOREA TOUR CARDs are available in airports, major convenience store branches, vending machines in subways, banks, etc. at KRW 4,000. (Money for transportation should be added separately)
• For more information on KOREA TOUR CARD online reservation, visit the website.

Mobile KOREA TOUR CARD

Mobile KOREA TOUR CARD is the mobile app version of the KOREA TOUR CARD. With the NFC function of your mobile phone, users can use it to pay not only for public transportation (subway, bus, taxi, etc.) but also for purchases at Starbucks, McDonalds, and convenience stores. Don’t miss out the benefits for cultural events and tourist destinations provided to you on the KOREA TOUR CARD.

• Just run the App on boarding!
• Charge and refund with your credit/debit card
• Check balance anywhere, anytime!

Precautions Before use, check your wireless connection and make sure NFC is enabled. Enable the app and use the card when the screen is turned on. Works only on mobile phones with Android OS 5.0.1 or above and NFC function. The credit card/debit card supports VISA / Master / JCB / Amex / Union Pay only.

Tourist attractions

Shopping & Duty-free

Accommodation

Sking & Resort

Food & Beverages

Performance & Exibition

Entertainment

Hands-on Activities

Wifi&Etc.

Where to Purchase

Where to Top Up and Refund

– KOREA TOUR CARD can be topped up at the following locations. – Please noted that the card price(4,000KRW) is not refundable. – Inquiry: Korea Travel Hotline 1330 – KOREA TOUR CARD’s maximum balance cannot be more than 500,000 KRW.

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•   Italia
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•   Malaysia
•   Nederland
•   New Zealand
•   Österreich
•   Polska
•   Portugal
•   România
•   Schweiz
•   Singapore
•   United Kingdom
•   United States
•   繁體中文 (香港)
•   简体中文 (中国)

4 Best Ways to Take Travel Money to South Korea in 2024

If you’re a fan of K-Pop and Korean culture, a trip to South Korea can be very rewarding. South Korea is also a popular place to move for work, with an established expat community in many large cities.

If you’re planning on going to South Korea to live and work - or even just for a quick visit - you’ll need ways to pay for things once you’re there. This guide runs through the benefits and drawbacks of 4 possible ways to take money to South Korea so you can find the one that suits your specific needs best. 

Best ways to take money to South Korea

In this guide we’ll walk through 4 of the most practical and popular ways to take money to South Korea, including our top picks for providers to look at, pros and cons. Here are the common ways to pay overseas that we’ll investigate:

Prepaid Travel Card

Travel Debit Card

Travel credit card

Prepaid travel cards to use in South Korea

Ideal for: convenient spending and withdrawals in South Korea with low fees and fair exchange rates.

Card payments are super popular in South Korea, so getting a prepaid travel card from a specialist provider can be a convenient way to spend safely while you’re there. Register an account with your preferred provider, and order your card to be delivered to your home. You can then add money to the linked digital multi-currency account in AUD, and either convert right away to KRW, or hold your balance in AUD to convert at the point of payment instead.

Not all cards allow you to convert funds to won in advance - so compare a few, including the Wise card we’ll look at in more detail next. With Wise you can convert to KRW in advance or when you spend - and the card supports 40+ other currencies, too, so you can also hold onto it for your next trip.

Learn more about our picks for the 6 best prepaid cards .

Wise - our pick for prepaid travel card

With this card:

• Hold and exchange 40+ currencies in your linked Wise account
• No annual or monthly fees to pay, and no minimum balance requirement
• Currency exchange uses the mid-market rate with no markup
• Some free ATM withdrawals available every month
• Virtual and physical cards available

Pros and cons of taking money to South Korea with a prepaid travel card

• Convenient for spending and withdrawals in KRW and a selection of other currencies
• Pick a card which supports holding in KRW and you can lock in the exchange rate before you travel
• Secure as not linked to your everyday AUD account
• Many cards have no minimum balance amount and no ongoing fees, and offer some fee free ATM withdrawals 
• Cards are available which offer currency exchange at the mid-market exchange rate with no markup
• Inactivity fees and exchange rate markups may apply depending on the card you select 
• ATM fees apply to some cards, particularly if you make frequent withdrawals and exhaust your fair usage allowances
• Some cards charge a fee if you spend in an unsupported currency, or if you spend a currency you don’t hold in your account already

Travel debit cards to use in the UK

Ideal for: secure KRW spending and travel perks like free global wifi, airport lounge access or insurance 

Travel debit cards work just like any other debit card but are designed with travel-focused benefits such as some currency conversion with no fees to pay. Other cards offer extras like free airport lounge access or wifi, although you might have to pay a monthly fee to unlock some perks.

Generally travel debit cards also have a linked multi-currency account which you can use to hold, spend and withdraw in a broad selection of foreign currencies conveniently. Plus, as your card isn’t connected to your everyday AUD account, it’s a secure option. Even if the travel card was stolen, your normal account and card is secure and thieves have no access to your main bank account. 

We’ll go into more detail about our top pick for a travel debit card - Revolut - next, and you can also read more about the best travel debit cards in Australia here.

Revolut - our pick for travel debit card for South Korea

• Hold and exchange 25+ currencies
• Choose the account plan that suits your needs and spending, including some with no monthly fees
• Some no- fee ATM withdrawals and currency exchange with the mid-market rate, based on the account tier you choose
• Extra perks like accounts for under 18s, plus cash back on card spending for top tier account holders
• Travel benefits offered for some account plans

Pros and cons of taking money to South Korea with a travel debit card

• Cards are often optimised for travel, with ways to cut the cost of spending overseas
• Different card options available to suit individual customer needs, including some with no ongoing fees to pay
• Make withdrawals from international ATMs to avoid having to carry a lot of cash 
• No interest or penalty fees - just top up the amount you want to spend and you’re done
• Not connected to your main AUD account, adding a layer of security when you’re overseas
• Not all cards allow you to hold and exchange KRW
• Unlike with a credit card you’ll need to fund your account upfront
• Some cards have monthly fees to pay to get full feature access

Taking cash in South Korea

Ideal for: small purchases and as a back up plan for when your card can’t be used.

Only about one in every five transactions in South Korea involves cash. Payments with cards are more popular overall - but having some cash is useful as a back up plan when you’re abroad, just in case you run into problems and can’t use your card for some reason. 

You can get South Korean won in cash before you leave, through a service like Travelex, carry AUD cash with you and exchange it in South Korea once you arrive, or make a quick ATM withdrawal at the airport when you land.

In fact, using ATMs for your travel cash is a smart balance as you won’t need to carry too much cash all at once, and you can generally find a handy ATM whenever you’re in a town or tourist area.

Do I need cash in South Korea?

Having some cash in KRW as a back up plan, and for tipping and small purchases is a smart move, and can be reassuring when you’re travelling.

You don’t necessarily need to order your travel money before you leave either - just get your cash from an ATM when you arrive. If you use a prepaid card or travel debit card for ATM withdrawals you’ll also often get a great exchange rate and low fees, too.

How to buy KRW on arrival in South Korea?

In cities and tourist areas you can exchange AUD to KRW pretty easily. However, bear in mind that money changing services in airports and at your hotel are unlikely to offer the very best deal out there. It’s worth heading to a city centre and shopping around based on exchange rates and fees to make the most of your money.

How to buy KRW in Australia?

Another option is to exchange AUD to South Korean won in advance before you leave Australia. Providers like Travelex let you order the KRW cash you need online and either collect in a branch or have it delivered to home. Exchange rates are likely to include a markup.

Best place to get won from

There’s no single best place to get your travel cash - it’ll all depend on where you’re heading and how good a rate you can find either at home or on arrival. Compare a few options and bear in mind that it’s usually worth avoiding currency exchange in the airport or in your hotel.

Travel credit cards to use in South Korea

Ideal for: secure payments with extra travel benefits, and as a form of payment guarantee when checking into a hotel.

Credit cards are the most popular payment method of all in South Korea. If you have time before you travel you might want to consider getting a specific travel credit card which lets you earn rewards and cash back when you spend in foreign currencies. You might also find cards aimed at travellers which have low or no foreign transaction fees, airport lounge access or complimentary insurance. 

Remember to weigh up the costs and benefits of using credit cards to pay for travel, as you’ll often have to pay an annual fee, cash advance costs and interest if you don’t clear your bill in full and on time. 

Learn about the best travel credit cards in Australia here, and read on for more on our top pick.

28 Degrees - our pick for travel credit card

• Order online and start spending with your virtual card instantly if approved
• No annual or monthly fees
• No foreign transaction or currency conversion fees
• Make ATM withdrawals overseas - fees apply for this service 
• Unlock perks like discounts on travel bookings and internet roaming packages

Pros and cons of travel credit cards to the UK

• Earn rewards and discounts, or get travel perks - depending on the card you pick
• Spread your costs out over a few months
• Some cards have low or no foreign transaction fees
• Credit cards are useful as a payment guarantee in some situations
• Interest and fees usually apply if you don’t pay back your bill immediately
• Cash advance and interest costs apply when using an ATM
• Eligibility rules and credit checks apply

Travel requirements from Australia to South Korea

If you have an Australian passport you can enter South Korea as a tourist for a stay of up to 90 days without needing a visa or visa waiver.

Check the government’s Smart Traveller website to learn more.

Does South Korea accept Australian dollars?

No. You won’t be able to spend AUD anywhere in South Korea. If you’re carrying Australian dollars with you you'll need to exchange them for KRW in order to spend them.

Best currency to take to South Korea

As you might expect, you can only spend South Korean won in South Korea. You can exchange your AUD for South Korean won before you travel, make an ATM withdrawal on arrival, or exchange cash in South Korea. If you plan to exchange on arrival you’ll be fine to carry AUD. 

How much money do I need per day in South Korea?

South Korea is not known as a budget destination, but you can find accommodation at a good range of price points. As hotels are usually one of the highest costs involved in planning a break, this can make it easier to manage your budget. Once you’re in South Korea you’ll find a cheap meal for one will be about 10 dollars on average, while  a 3 course lunch for 2 will set you back in the region of 60 AUD, and a single bus ride could be just 1.5 AUD. 

Do some detailed research to see how much things are likely to cost wherever you’re headed, so you can plan your budget. Get more detailed cost information by country and city, from Numbeo.com .

How much does it cost to fly from Australia to the UK?

Flight costs vary widely depending on where in Australia you’ll leave from and where exactly you need to be in South Korea . At the time of writing (September 2023), you can find direct flights with Jetstar from around 500 AUD, travelling from Brisbane. 

There’s no single best way to take money to South Korea. Generally, carrying one or more cards, including a travel prepaid or debit card, as well as some cash is a good idea for most people. That means you won’t be caught out if one payment method is refused or can’t be used for some reason.

Check out specialist travel cards - such as a prepaid travel card from Wise or a travel debit card from Revolut - to use for spending and withdrawals, and to carry alongside your regular debit or credit card, and a little cash. Using a specialist travel card can mean you access lower overall costs when spending overseas compared to using a standard card with a foreign transaction fee - so you can do more on your trip.

Use this guide to decide which option to take money to South Korea will work best for you, based on your own preferences and needs.

FAQ - Best ways to take money to the UK

Should I exchange money before I travel to South Korea?

You won’t necessarily need to exchange money before you travel. Making an ATM withdrawal on arrival in South Korea can work well if you don’t have time to get KRW sorted out in advance. It may also be better value overall if you have a travel card from a provider like Wise or Revolut. 

Can I withdraw South Korea from a local ATM?

You can’t withdraw South Korean won at a normal ATM in Australia, but you’ll be able to get KRW from an ATM on arrival easily. Use a travel card and your withdrawal may even be free. 

Are prepaid travel cards a good way to take money to South Korea?

Travel prepaid cards from services like Wise have some great features like multi-currency balances and low or no ATM fees. They can also be a safe way to spend when abroad - consider getting a travel prepaid card to use alongside your other preferred payment methods, to bring down the costs of your trip.

Can I use cash in South Korea?

Yes. Sometimes cash is the easiest way to pay for small purchases and tipping. However, card payments are by far the most popular option in South Korea, so it’s worth also having a travel card, to make sure you’ll be able to pay no matter what happens.

In My Korea

Korea’s T-Money Card: The Ultimate Guide 2024

Want to know where to buy a T-Money Card in Korea? Unfamiliar with how to use it and what the main advantages of it are? Not sure about how to pay for transportation tickets, what the fares will be, and whether you’ll have the right change? This ultimate guide to the T-Money Card, the best Korean transportation card, will solve all your problems.

Find out where to buy a T-Money Card at Incheon Airport and other locations in Korea, learn how to top-up your card in Korea and where to top-up, and also discover the many benefits of using a T-Money Card. This in-depth article will answer all your T-Money queries quickly and easily.

This comprehensive guide is updated regularly to bring you the latest information about changes and additional ways to use the T-Money Card. There are also lots of my own tips about how to use the T-Money Card, where it can be used, and lots of really useful travel advice for visiting Korea.

For those who prefer to watch a video version of this article, please watch it here:

Affiliate Disclaimer :  This site contains affiliate links and I may earn commission for purchases made after clicking these links.

Table of Contents

What Is The T-Money Card

The T-Money Card is a prepaid transportation card that can be used to pay for public transportation in cities across Korea, including buses and subways. It provides cash-free travel around Korean cities, and takes the hassle out of to get around Korea and buying tickets for each journey.

When you use the T-Money Card, you pay less for subway and bus fares. It literally pays for itself.

The T-Money Card can be used to pay for a range of items and services, including taxi charges, items in convenience stores, entrance fees for attractions, vending machines, and food and beverages in restaurants. Anywhere you see the T-Money logo (above), you can pay with T-Money Card.

Why Do I Need A T-Money Card In Korea?

Korea is fast becoming a cash-free society and in recent years Korea’s buses have moved away from accepting cash payments. Almost a quarter of all buses in Seoul are now cash-free and you can’t pay with cash at all on Daejeon’s buses. This will likely be the norm everywhere in Korea very soon.

Even when you can buy tickets in cash, it’s inconvenient making sure you have the right cash available (no change is given on buses). Queueing up to buy a ticket at a crowded subway station is a real hassle when you could just touch-and-go straight through the barriers with a T-Money Card.

The biggest reason is the two rates to travel in Korea’s subways and buses – one for cash and one for transportation cards like the T-Money Card. The rate for the T-Money Card is lower, meaning you’ll save money when you travel with a T-Money Card, as you can see in the table below:

*Bus fares in Seoul rose to ₩1,500 from August 2023. However, it hasn’t been confirmed whether cash and T-Money costs will be the same now or not.

Quick Summary

Here’s a summary of the T-Money Card and why you should get one when you travel to Korea.

Planning to visit Korea? These travel essentials will help you plan your trip, get the best deals, and save you time and money before and during your Korean adventure.

Visas & K-ETA: Some travellers to Korea need a Tourist Visa , but most can travel with a Korean Electronic Travel Authorisation (K-ETA). Currently 22 Countries don’t need either one.

How To Stay Connected : Pre-order a Korean Sim Card or a WiFi Router to collect on-arrival at Incheon Airport (desks open 24-hours). Alternatively, download a Korean eSIM for you travels.

Where To Stay : For Seoul, I recommend Myeongdong (convenient), Hongdae (cool culture) or Gangnam (shopping). For Busan, Haeundae (Beach) or Seomyeon (Downtown).

Incheon Airport To Seoul : Take the Airport Express (AREX) to Seoul Station or a Limo Bus across Seoul. Book an Incheon Airport Private Transfer and relax to or from the airport.

Korean Tour Operators : Tour companies that have a big presence in Korea include Klook , Trazy , Viator , and Get Your Guide . These sites offer discounted entry tickets for top attractions.

Seoul City Passes : Visit Seoul’s top attractions for free with a Discover Seoul Pass or Go City Seoul Pass . These passes are great for families and couples visiting Seoul – you can save lots.

How To Get Around : For public transport, grab a T-Money Card . Save money on Korea’s high speed trains with a Korea Rail Pass . To see more of Korea, there are many rental car options from Klook , EconomyBookings , and RentalCars .

Travel Money : Use money exchanges near Myeongdong and Hongdae subway stations for the best exchange rates. Order a Wise Card or WOWPASS to pay by card across Korea.

Flights To Korea : I use flight comparison sites such as Expedia and Skyscanner to find the best flights to Korea from any country. Air Asia is a good option for budget flights from Asia.

Travel Insurance : It is important to insure your trips to protect yourself against the unexpected. World Nomad is a specialized travel insurance provider with options for different coverage for travellers from around the world. You can also purchase cover when you are already travelling.

How To Learn Korean : The language course from 90 Day Korean or Korean Class 101 both have well-structured lessons and lots of useful resources to help you learn Korean.

Where To Buy A T-Money Card

T-Money Cards are available in many places in Korea, including at Incheon Airport, in convenience stores, and in public transportation stations. This section of the T-Money Guide will show you where to buy a T-Money Card in each of these different locations and extra services that include T-Money.

Buy T-Money At The Incheon Airport, Seoul

The most convenient place for most travellers to get a T-Money Card is at Incheon Airport in the Transit Centre (Floor B1) of Terminal 1 or Terminal 2. There are vending machines that sell the Korea Tour Card , which is the tourist-friendly version of the T-Money Card that comes with extra benefits.

Follow the directions to the ‘ Airport Railroad ‘ in either terminal and it will lead you to the B1 Transit Centre. The T-Money Card vending machines will be well signposted and located next to the All-Stop subway train, which is the subway to central Seoul that you can pay for with T-Money.

Please note : If you arrive at Incheon Airport Terminal 1, the Transit Centre is the only place you can buy a T-Money Card (Korea Tour Card). The CU convenience stores in Terminal 1 don’t sell T-Money Cards. In Terminal 2, you can buy T-Money Cards from GS25 and 7/11 convenience stores.

How to buy T-Money card At Incheon Airport Transit Centre:

It’s easy to buy a T-Money Card from the Transit Centre. Head to the All-Stop train station where the T-Money Card vending machines are located. You must have cash (KRW) to purchase at the vending machines, as well as cash to top-up the balance afterwards.

Here are the 4 steps required to buy a T-Money Card from the vending machine:

1: Insert Cash

The cost of the Korea Travel Card (hereafter called T-Money Card) is ₩4,000. Insert cash into the machine. Change is available.

2: Press The Number

Like a normal vending machine, press the number of the card you want to buy. Don’t select a number which is empty.

3: Press The Green Button

To confirm your purchase, press the green button at the bottom of the keypad.

4: Collect Your T-Money Card

The vending machine will collect your T-Money Card and dispense it to you.

Once the T-Money Card has been dispensed, don’t forget to collect any change from the vending machine. To top-up, take it to the ticket machines outside the All-Stop terminal. Full details about how to top-up will be included in the section ‘ How To Top-Up A T-Money Card ‘

Need Cash For T-Money?

One issue with T-Money is that it can only be topped-up using cash (KRW). Unfortunately, airport money exchanges typically give bad exchange rates. You can get better rates by taking the Airport Express non-stop train into Seoul and changing money in Myeongdong or Hongdae, or by ordering a Korean sim card from Klook with a T-Money Card with a preloaded balance of 5,000 KRW or 10,000 KRW.

Where to Buy A T-Money Card In Korea

I recommend buying a T-Money Card at the Incheon Airport Transit Centre. However, if you’re not arriving in Korea at Incheon Airport, want to get a card with a cuter design, or want to save money by combining T-Money with other services, here are 6 other places where you can buy T-Money Cards.

Buy T-Money At A Subway Station In Korea

Subway stations in Korea sell the basic version of the T-Money Card, which comes with no balance. You can usually top-up from the same machine that dispenses them.

Price : ₩2,500

Buy T-Money At A Convenience Store In Korea

Korean convenience stores, including GS25 and 7/11, sell T-Money Cards with their own designs. These come with no balance but can be topped up straight after purchase with cash.

Price : ₩3,000

Buy T-Money On The Airport Express

It is possible to buy a T-Money card inside the subway stations along the Airport Express all-stop train between Incheon Airport and other parts of Seoul. You can even personalise this card and add your own picture to the card.

Price : From ₩6,000

Buy T-Money From Klook

Klook offers a combined Korean sim card and T-Money package that comes with a T-Money Card with Klook’s own cute design. You save money on both the T-Money Card and sim card with this combined package.

Price : From ₩32,500

Get T-Money With The WOWPASS

The WOWPASS is a travel money card that allows you to pay for goods and services like a local. It includes T-Money functions and the WOWPASS Airport Package comes with ₩10,000 T-Money balance included.

Price : From ₩5,000

Get T-Money With The Discover Seoul Pass

The Discover Seoul Pass is a city-pass that offers free entry to dozens of premium attractions in Seoul. It also includes T-Money functions to allow you to travel on public transport without having to buy a separate T-Money Card.

Price : From ₩50,000

You can also buy T-Money cards from stationery stores like ArtBox. ArtBox is a popular place to buy souvenirs and cute stationery. They also have their own line of T-Money Cards with ever-changing fun designs for you to collect. There is no T-Money balance and the cards cost more.

How Much Does The T-Money Card Cost?

The price of the T-Money Card is ₩2,500 for the standard T-Money Card that is sold at public transportation stations in Korea. This does not include any credit and you will need to add funds to the card before you can use it. The cost of the Korea Travel Card at Incheon Airport is ₩4,000 .

T-Money Cards from other locations, such as convenience stores and stationery stores, which include special artworks, typically cost more money. The cost of T-Money can be free when it is included in another service, such as the WOWPASS or Discover Seoul Pass.

Where Can You Buy Special T-Money Designs?

If you want to buy a T-Money Card with an interesting design, there are several options in Korea. The stationery store ARTBOX offers some cute designs with their own characters, as do convenience stores. These cards have the same functions as a regular T-Money Card and work the same way.

Please note: T-Money Cards with unique designs are a bit more expensive – around ₩5,000 to ₩6,000 per card. The base cost of a T-Money Card is ₩2,500. These can make nice gifts or souvenirs and as the T-Money Card doesn’t expire, you can use them every time you visit Korea.

BTS-Themed T-Money Cards

BTS ARMY members may want to get a special souvenir of their time in Korea and can do so with a BTS-themed T-Money Card. These special edition BTS T-Money Cards work the same as regular T-Money Cards, but come with 7 different designs, one for each member of the hit group, BTS.

These aren’t widely available, and new versions replace older versions frequently. If you want to buy a BTS-themed T-Money Card, you can find them in some convenience stores or in K-Pop merchandise stores in areas such as Gangnam, Hongdae, or in the Dongdaemun Design Plaza.

Where Can You Use T-Money In Korea?

The T-Money Card is primarily a transportation card that can be used to pay for bus and subway journeys in most Korean cities . However, it also functions as a payment card that can be used to make small purchases in certain Korean shops, cafes, restaurants, and attractions.

If you bought the Korea Tour Card from the Incheon Airport Transit Centre, you will be eligible for discounts at tourist attractions, shops, entertainment, restaurants, and other locations. For example, you get 30% off entry fees at N Seoul Tower and 20% off entry fees at COEX Aquarium.

Here are the places you can use the T-Money Card in Korea:

It’s really simple to use T-Money on Korea’s buses. Touch the T-Money Card to the card reader when you enter the bus to start your journey, then touch it again when you exit the bus. In most city buses in Korea you enter at the front of the bus and get off in the middle. There will be a T-Money Card reader in both locations.

Most bus journeys cost the same price, however, if your bus travels more than 10km, you will be charged an extra fee. If you don’t tap-off when you leave the bus, you may be charged this fee.

On The Subway

The T-Money Card is accepted on all subway systems in Korea, including in Seoul, Busan, Daejeon, and Gwangju, Touch the T-Money Card when you enter the security gates at the start of your journey, then touch again to exit. If you run out of credit, there are machines inside the gates to top-up (but you’ll need cash).

Like bus journeys, most short journeys on the subway will be the same fee. If you travel a long way on the subway, or make many transfers, the fee can be higher.

Transfer discounts : When you transfer between subway or bus rides within 30 minutes, you’ll get a discount on your next ride as long as you tapped-off when on your previous journey. Also, if you accidentally enter the wrong subway gate, you can leave within 10 minutes for free on some lines.

You can use a T-Money Card to pay for taxis in Korea . It’s quick, easy, and allows you to avoid using a credit card or having the right change. As long as the taxi driver has the T-Money logo displayed, you can pass your T-Money Card to the driver who will touch it to the card reader and complete the payment.

You can call taxis directly to you using the Kakao Taxi app, which is available on Android and iPhone and can be used in English, Korean, and Chinese. My guide to using Kakao Taxi will show you how to order and pay for a taxi in Korea.

For Shopping

The T-Money Card is really useful when you want to buy small items, such as a bottle of water, coffee, or some snacks. When you see the T-Money logo, you can use the card to pay for goods and services. You can use T-Money to pay for purchases in convenience stores (CU, GS25, Emart 24, 7/11).

You can use the T-Money Card in Korea’s supermarkets and chain stores, including Home Plus (supermarket) Emart (supermarket) Face Shop (cosmetics) Innisfree (cosmetics) Tony Moly (cosmetics) and others.

Using the T-Money Card for shopping : As the T-Money Card needs to be topped-up in cash (KRW), using it for shopping isn’t really that convenient. Instead, I recommend getting a WOWPASS in Korea, or bringing a travel money card like the Wise Travel Card or Revolut Travel Card .

Food and beverage outlets also accept the T-Money Card, including Starbucks, McDonald’s, Angel-in-Us Coffee, Ediya Coffee, Gong Cha Tea, and Paris Baguette and more.

It’s best to check for the T-Money logo before trying to pay with your T-Money Card or asking if T-Money is accepted. Again, using the T-Money Card is possible for this, but usually not the most convenient way to pay.

At Attractions

You can use T-Money to pay for entry fees for major attractions, including theme parks and sports stadiums, as well as other locations like pay-phones and vending machines.

Here are some of the locations you can use T-Money: vending machines, public pay-phones, Everland theme park, sports stadiums (including Wyverns Baseball Club), and at festivals (to pay for food and drinks).

Where Can’t You Use T-Money In Korea?

You can’t use T-Money to pay for intercity train tickets, including the KTX – Korea’s high speed train network. You also can’t enter intercity buses and pay with T-Money like you can when entering a regular city bus. However, you can use T-Money to buy intercity bus tickets and board with those.

Generally, the T-Money Card is accepted in major cities across Korea, especially destinations popular with tourists. If T-Money isn’t accepted, there will be other options available, such as using Cashbee or paying with cash.

How To Top-Up A T-Money Card

The T-Money Card can be recharged (reloaded) at subway stations and convenience stores throughout Korea. Vending machines at subway stations are the easiest locations to recharge a T-Money Card and will also allow you to check your balance before or after the top-up

You can only top-up the T-Money Card with cash . Credit cards aren’t accepted for top-ups.

These machines can be found in each major city in Korea where you can use T-Money. They are available in Korean, English, Japanese, and Chinese. These T-Money recharging machines only accept cash and the T-Money Card can’t be reloaded with a credit card.

This is how to top-up a T-Money Card using a ticket machine in subway stations in Korea. The T-Money card can only be topped-up using cash and can’t be topped up using credit or debit cards or money transfers. This method works for other transportation cards in Korea, too.

1: Go to a ticket machine in a subway station

Go to a ticket vending or transportation card at a subway station. These machines are usually close to the entrance barriers to the subway inside the station.

2: Select ‘Recharge Transportation Card’

Change the language of the ticket recharge machine as desired, then select ‘Recharging the Transit Card’ or a similar option to begin to top-up your T-Money Card.

3: Select the value to top-up

Select the amount of money that you wish to add to your existing T-Money balance. The screen should show you what balance the T-Money Card already has. New T-Money Cards usually have no balance. You can recharge the T-Money Card with as little as 1,000 Korean won.

4: Confirm the value to top-up

Once you’ve selected the desired amount you wish to top-up the T-Money Card with in Korean won, confirm the top-up value by pressing ‘confirm’ on the screen.. You should select the amount that you have available in cash as you can’t top-up the T-Money Card in any other way.

5: Insert cash

To top-up a T-Money card, enter cash into the ticket vending machine up to the value you wish to top-up. Insert each bank note separately. Please note : only KRW can be used to top-up a T-Money Card.

6: Place your t-Money Card on the card reader

After inserting cash to top-up your T-Money Card, place your T-Money Card on the card recharge plate, which is usually located below the main screen of the recharging machine. Make sure the card is placed flat on the reader.

7: Wait for the T-Money Card to be recharged

The T-Money Card will be recharged once the recharging machine recognised the T-Money Card placed on the card recharge plate. Wait for the recharge to complete, which should take about 5 to 10 seconds in total.

8: Take your T-Money Card and start using it

Once the T-Money Card has been topped-up, take the card from the card recharge plate and you can use it to travel on the subway, on buses, and in other places. Tap to start your journey, and tap again when you finish.

Besides subway stations, you can also recharge a T-Money Card at a convenience store. The same rule about only charging with cash applies. You can’t recharge a T-Money Card with a credit or debit card. Here’s how to top-up the T-Money Card at convenience stores in Korea:

1: Go To A Convenience Store

Go to any major convenience store in Seoul or other towns and cities across Korea, including CU, GS25, Emart 24, and 7/11.

2: Ask To Top-Up T-Money

Show your T-Money Card to the cashier and ask to top-up the balance. Use Papago to translate into Korean if you’re not sure what to say.

3: Give the amount of cash to top-up to the cashier

You can only use cash to top-up T-Money balances, so make sure you have cash available to pay with. Give it to the cashier.

4: Place your T-Money Card On the Card Reader

Place your T-Money Card on the electronic card reader and wait for confirmation from the cashier that the balance has been updated.

There is a T-Money office at Seoul Station where you can ask for advice, purchase & reload the card, and get your remaining balance refunded when you leave Korea. T-Money Headquarters Address: 1st Floor. T-money Town, Seoul City Tower Building, Namdaemun-ro 5-Ga, Jung-gu, Seoul.

How Much Money Should I Add To A T-Money Card?

How much money to add to a T-Money Card depends on how you intend to use it. If you will use your T-Money Card mostly for transportation , I recommend adding ₩10,000 per day. This should cover all subway / bus travel costs within a city like Seoul, which cost ₩1,400 /₩1,500 per journey.

If you plan to use your T-Money Card to pay for small purchases , such as snacks, bottled water, and coffee, then add ₩20,000 per day, which includes transportation costs. A coffee in Seoul costs between ₩2,000 – ₩5,000, water is ₩1,000, and snacks from ₩1,000 – ₩5,000.

When you first top-up a T-Money Card, add ₩50,000 for the starting balance. This balance should last most travellers for a week if they use their T-Money Card just for bus and subway rides. You can check your balance during your travels and top-up when the balance gets low (under₩ 5,000).

Can You Recharge A T-Money Card With A Credit Card?

It is not possible to recharge a T-Money Card with a credit or debit card. Only cash can be used to top-up the T-Money Card. There are restrictions that only allow cash top-ups. The app version of T-Money can be topped-up by card payments or online transfers, but not physical T-Money Cards.

How To Your Check T-Money Card Balance

There are a number of ways to check your balance. When you use the T-Money Card on the subway or a bus, the electronic card reader will show you the fee for the ride and the remaining balance. This is the most common way to check your balance.

You can also check your card balance at subway ticket machines and T-Money recharge stations. When you recharge your card, it will show your balance before you add credit. This is a good way to check your balance, even if you don’t intend to recharge the T-Money Card right then.

Using T-Money Mobile App To Check Your Balance

The T-Money mobile app is an online-only version of T-Money that doesn’t come with a card. Instead, you can use your phone’s NFC function to use your T-Money balance. You can also use your phone’s NFC function to scan a physical T-Money Card and check the balance when logged into the app.

However, I don’t recommend using the T-Money mobile app to check your T-Money balance. There have been reports by travellers in Korea that the app sometimes accidentally wipes the T-Money Card, making it useless. I can’t confirm this myself, but it is much easier to check your balance elsewhere.

How To Refund A T-Money Card Balance

You can refund the existing balance of your T-Money Card at major convenience stores and subway stations across Korea, as well as at the T-Money headquarters in Seoul. These are the locations you can top-up a T-Money Card. Refunds will be paid in cash and partial refunds aren’t possible.

There’s a ₩500 fee to refund a T-Money balance, which is deducted from the existing balance. The cost of the T-Money Card won’t be refunded, but you can keep the T-Money Card after the balance is refunded. The T-Money Card doesn’t expire, so you can use it if you visit Korea again.

The T-Money Card doesn’t expire. Keep it for future trips or give it to a friend who is visiting later.

Tip : The credit balance on the T-Money Card will stay active for 5 years from the date of the last top-up. If you plan to visit Korea again in the next 5 years and have a small balance left, it might be best to keep the balance on your T-Money Card so you don’t need to top-up the card when you return.

Alternative Korean Transportation Cards & 1 bonus

There are several alternative transportation cards to T-Money, including the Cashbee Card (pictured above), Namane Card, which uses Rail+, and varieties of the T-Money Card that offer slightly different benefits from the original T-Money Card. Here’s a summary of those cards and what they offer:

Cashbee Card

The Cashbee Card by Lotte can be purchased and used in most of the same locations as T-Money. You can purchase a Cashbee Card at convenience stores and subway stations across Korea. The CU chain of convenience stores only offers the Cashbee Card, not T-Money.

The Cashbee card can be used to pay for journeys on buses and subway across Korea. Tap the card when you enter the bus or subway, then tap again when you finish your journey. Transfer discounts should also be applied. Cashbee can be used in Lotte shops, including Lotte Department Store and Lotte Cinema.

Where to buy : Convenience stores, subway

Namane Card

The Namane Card by KB Bank uses the Rail+ transportation card system by Korail, Korea’s national train service. One big advantage the Namane Card has over T-Money and Cashbee is you can use it to pay for train services, including Korea’s high-speed KTX trains.

The other big difference with the Namane Card is that you can personalise your card by uploading pictures of yourself or other designs you upload using the Namane app. The Namane Card is available from locations across Korea , including inside major train stations, department stores, stationery stores, and book shops.

Price : ₩7,000

Where to buy : Convenience stores, subway, Namane machines, online from Klook

Korea Tour Card

The Korea Tour Card was designed for tourists travelling to Korea and provides not only with the standard T-Money functions, but also offers lots of discounts . This is the version of T-Money that’s available at Incheon Airport.

Price : ₩4,000

Buy : Incheon Airport

Discover Seoul Pass

The Discover Seoul Pass is a city-pass that offers free entry to more than 50 premium attractions in Seoul. It also includes T-Money functions to allow you to travel on public transport without having to buy one. Discover Seoul Pass comes in flavours of 24, 48, and 72 hours validity, and only starts counting down starting when you use it for the first free benefit.

Price : from ₩50,000

Buy : Online from Klook

Creatrip X Bellygom Transportation Card

The Creatrip X Bellygom transportation card is a colourful travel card from Creatrip, which really stands out thanks to its bright pink picture of Bellygom, a popular Korean character that’s big on YouTube. With the ‘Decoration Card’ feature, you can make your own special transportation card, too. This makes it a lovely souvenir of your trip.

Please note : this card is a version of Cashbee and can be used and charged in all the same locations as Cashbee can.

This card comes with ₩5,000 loaded, which means you don’t need to worry about charging it at the airport (which should be done in cash). Simply collect the card at Incheon Airport (either terminal) or Gimpo Airport and then take the all-stop train straight into Seoul with it. It’s really convenient.

You can use the Creatrip X Bellygom transportation card to pay for public transportation across Korea, as well as in franchises such as Paris Baguette, Baskin Robbins, Angel In Us, and Lotte Mart.

Price : Around ₩10,200 (includes ₩5,000 balance)

Buy : Online from Creatrip .

Climate Card Tourist Pass

The Climate Card Tourist Pass is a new public transport card that will give visitors unlimited access to Seoul’s subway, bus system for 1, 2, 3, or 5 days. n addition to getting unlimited access to Seoul’s public transport, tourist pass users can also benefit from the same discounts for cultural and performance facilities that are applied to the Climate Card, such as 50% off admission to the Seoul Science Center and Seoul Grand Park.

For more information, please read the Climate Card Seoul Tourist Pass Guide .

Bonus: Driving in Korea

If taking public transport is not your style of travelling, consider driving in South Korea . You’ll get to see things outside of the bigger cities, and also added convenient of not following rigid timetables. Check out our guide on driving in Korea for foreigners!

Tip: The Discover Seoul Pass includes a free Airport Express journey from Incheon Airport to Seoul. This can be useful to get yourself into the city before you top-up the T-Money balance on the card. Find out more tips and ways to use the pass in my list of Discover Seoul Pass itineraries .

Is The T-Money Card Worth Buying?

So, if you’ve read all this and you’re still not sure if you should get a T-Money Card or not, here is a simple summary to show why you might want to get one. This is based on my personal experience of using a T-Money Card, as well as opinions shared from members of my Korea Travel Group .

For travellers who want to pay for transportation across Korea’s bus and subway networks, the T-Money Card will be perfect and an essential purchase. However, if you’re looking for a way to pay for goods, services, and attractions in Korea, then the T-Money Card isn’t really what you’re looking for.

Instead of the T-Money Card to pay for things in Korea, I recommend getting a WOWPASS or Wise Travel Money Card . These are both more convenient and allow you pay in Korea using your card’s balance, which can be topped up in foreign currency (WOWPASS) or by bank transfer (Wise).

Learn more : Check out my guide to using Wise in Korea to learn how to get a Wise card, who is eligible, how to activate the Wise card, and all the ways it can save on your travel money expenses.

The T-Money Card is really useful and I can’t imagine travelling in Korea without one. I’d recommend buying one when you arrive in Korea. If you want to know more about T-Money and its alternatives, you can find lots of useful information in my complete South Korea travel guide .

Tips For Using T-Money In Korea

Here are a few quick tips to help you use the T-Money Card more effectively when in Korea:

1: Check the remaining balance as you travel so that you don’t run out by accident.

2: Don’t top-up too much. I’d recommend adding ₩50,000 starting balance and then ₩20,000 – ₩30,000 each time after that. Maybe less if you don’t plan to travel much.

3: Buy one as soon as you arrive. Get a Korea Tour Card at Incheon Airport.

4: Make use of the T-Money Card when you are shopping in convenience stores. You’ll end up with a lot less change.

5 : Store the T-Money Card away from other cards that can be used to pay by touch as card readers can be confused by multiple cards.

Frequently Asked Questions

Finally, here are a few FAQs about using the T-Money card in Korea, in case the above information didn’t cover enough for you. If you have any other questions you’d like to ask, feel free to leave a comment.

Where can I use the T-Money Card?

The T-Money Card can be used on public transportation in Korea, including for subway and bus journeys. Furthermore, the T-Money Card can be used to make purchases in convenience stores, cafes, shops, at vending machines, and in a range of attractions.

Can I use a T-Money Card on the subway?

The T-Money Card can be used on the subway in several cities in Korea, including Seoul, Busan, Daegu, Gwangju, Daejeon, and Incheon.

Can I use a T-Money Card to pay for taxis?

The T-Money Card can be used to pay for taxis where the T-Money logo is displayed. Be sure to check the card has the correct balance remaining to cover the taxi fare before using a taxi.

What happens if I run out of credit when using the T-Money Card?

If you run out of money on your T-Money Card when using the subway, you can top-up at a payment machine inside the subway stations before you enter or exit the station. When travelling on buses, you won’t be able to use the T-Money Card on the bus if there isn’t enough credit available. You will need to top-up your T-Money balance before boarding a bus.

Can I use the T-Money Card outside of Seoul?

The T-Money Card can be used across Korea, not just in Seoul. It can be used for public transportation in all major cities, as well as on Jeju Island. The T-Money Card can also be used for purchases in convenience stores, shops, cafes, restaurants, and attractions where the T-Money logo is displayed.

How much does the T-Money Card cost?

The base cost of the T-Money Card is 2,500 Korean won. This doesn’t include credit, which must be purchased separately. The cost of the card is non-refundable, but outstanding balances on the card can be refunded. T-Money Cards with unique designs cost more and the Korea Tour Card, which is available at Incheon Airport, costs ₩4,000.

Can I pay for the T-Money Card with a credit card?

You can purchase the original T-Money Card with a credit card, but you won’t be able to add credit or reload the T-Money Card with a credit card. Only cash is accepted for T-Money Card recharging.

Does the T-Money Card expire?

The T-Money Card doesn’t expire and can be used on multiple trips to Korea. However, credit balances on the card will expire after 5 years after the date of the last top-up or usage if not used. Once used, the 5 year period will be extended.

Which cities can you use the T-Money Card in?

You can use the T-Money card to ride the subway in Seoul and the surrounding Gyeonggi Province, Incheon, Daejeon, Daegu, Busan, and Gwangju. You can also use the T-Money card on bus networks across Korea, including all major cities. The T-Money can also be used for intercity buses. However, unlike city buses, it is necessary to buy tickets for these buses before you ride.

Where can you buy a T-Money Card at Incheon Airport?

You can buy the T-Money Card from multiple locations at terminals 1 and 2 of Incheon Airport. There is a transportation centre on Basement 1 level of Terminal 1 that sells T-Money Cards (Korea Tour Cards) in a vending machine. You can also buy T-Money Cards at Incheon Airport from convenience stores, such as 7-11 and GS25. The CU convenience store chain in Terminal 1 doesn’t sell T-Money Cards, only Cashbee Cards, which are similar.

Where can I create a personalised T-Money Card?

You can create your own T-Money Card with your own photos on the card at certain subway and train stations in Seoul. These include Seoul Station, Hongik University Subway Station, and Digital Media City Subway Station. Upload photos from your phone or take a photo in front of the machine. Once you’ve chosen your design, the card will be printed and will be ready to use once you’ve topped it up. You can top-up the personalised T-Money Card at nearby top-up machines at Seoul Station or subway stations across Seoul.

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Hi! My name is Joel, I'm the author of In My Korea and writer of this article. I've lived, worked and travelled in Korea since 2015 and want to share my insights, stories and tips to help you have the best experience during your trip to Korea.

I love learning more about Korean culture, hiking the many mountains, and visiting all the coolest places in Korea, both modern and traditional. If you want to know more about my story, check out the ' about me ' section to learn why I love living in Korea.

21 thoughts on “Korea’s T-Money Card: The Ultimate Guide 2024”

Quick question… For the Korean T-Card, is there ability to get a transaction history (or Ride History) of where I tapped my card?

For example, my Los Angeles Tap Card for my and kids use for Buses and Trains, I register the TAP Card… If I need to know Ride History, I can go the TAP card website and obtain “Ride History.”

I’ve not actually tried it, but you might be able to see the history if you use the T-Money app with the mobile version of the card.

I had a look on the T-Money site (which is very basic), but couldn’t see any details about it. I guess just try it and see is the best answer I can give, sorry. I use the card function myself but never see the history of it.

Great article. Plan on trip starting at Incheon Airport Apr 2023. Can both myself and my wife use the same card at the same time. ie. we get on and off a bus together. Like scan twice or will we each need a separate card? Thanks-Mark.

Hi, thanks for reading. You will need a separate card for each person travelling. On some buses you can ask to charge for two people, but that won’t work on the subway, so it’ll be easier to get one each.

Thanks for the info. Will get two cards, myself and wife. If people were traveling as a family, such as with children, using a “Family Card” of some type would be much easier. Thanks again. -Mark.

It would be much easier, yeah, I hope they consider it in the future.

Hi! I really appreciate the detailed information you’ve included about T-money!

I have some questions. I’m a foreigner and I’ll be teaching English soon. I’m already in South Korea (I arrived beginning of March).

I didn’t manage to get a T-money card at the airport as I had to quickly be picked up. I’m aware that I can purchase one at a convenience store near me.

As I have just arrived, there are things I don’t have yet, such as: 1) My ARC (Alien Registration Card) 2) Korean bank card – I have my home debit bank card (Mastercard). I also have cash in ₩ on me. 3) Korean SIM plan

Will any of this affect me buying and topping up my T-money card?

Thank you in advance!

Hi, welcome to Korea. None of those things will stop you getting a T-Money card or topping it up. However, if you’re going to sign up for a Korean bank card, you can ask to have the ‘pay-on’ feature in your bank card so it will work just like a T-Money card. Therefore, you won’t need to get a T-Money card once you have your bank account. People here don’t really use T-Money cards when they can use their bank cards.

Hi, thank you for this article. I just got a T-Money card from a Korean store here in India. It’s the BTS PROOF edition T-Money card. Sitting in India, I was wondering how I could recharge it right away? I am visiting Korea next month. 🙂

Hi, thanks for reading. You can recharge the T-Money card as soon as you arrive in Korea at the airport. Either recharge it at the travel centre at Incheon Airport, or go to any convenience store and ask them to add credit to it. You can only top up with cash, so you’ll need some Korean won to do that. Have a good trip.

Thanks for the info… We’re a family of 4(2 adults & 2 teens), do we need to purchase 4 T-Money cards?

Hi, yes, each person will need a T-Money card.

A detailed guide of someone who has done his research/has a lot of experience with the card. Well done!

Thanks very much 🙂

Hi there! I have Cashbee cards from a previous trip, I can’t remember why I picked those over T-money cards last time around but suppose if I did it’s because they were fairly equivalent. Do you know if that’s still the case? No reason for me to leave them at home and get T-money cards, right?

Cashbee does work, yeah, but it’s not as widely used outside of the major cities. As per their own website “Transportation : Bus, Subway, Taxi (Some buses at Jeonnam, Jeonbuk, Gyeongbuk, and Gyengnam Will be available later on.)” Those are all large provinces in Korea and if you plan to travel to more places in Korea, T-Money might be a better option as it works in those places (as far as I know). The only place I’ve had a problem with T-Money is Sokcho, so maybe bring both just in case.

Hi! Thank you so much for the info. For the T-money vending machines in the airport, do they open 24 hours? My flight arrives at 2AM-ish, and I wonder if I can still get the t-money 😀 Thank you

Yes, they should be open 24 hours. I haven’t actually checked in the early hours of the morning, but I don’t see any reason for them to turn them off. If the machines aren’t available, you can always try at a convenience store instead.

Thanks a lot!

Is it still 2,500 Korean won, (Feb 2024) if you know?

I believe the base card is still 2,500 KRW, but the cost depends on where you buy it. Most places at Incheon Airport charge a bit more because they offer T-Money cards with their own designs, but usually no more than 3,000 or 4,000 KRW. If you get a WOWPASS , which is only 5,000 KRW, you get a T-Money card included with that.

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5 Must-Have Tourist Passes & Transportation Cards in South Korea

Planning a trip to Seoul? Make sure to get a Korea Travel Card, a prepaid card just like T-Money that you can use to pay for transportation fares. Book one for less than $4 here 🇰🇷

• Get a Mobile Discover Seoul Pass and enjoy admission to the best attractions in Seoul! Book a 24-hour pass starting at only $39 here .
• Thinking about booking a SIM card in Korea, an AREX train ticket, shuttle to Everland, and a hanbok rental voucher? Simply book this Go Cit y Seoul All-Inclusive Card and enjoy all these perks as well as admission to the likes of Lotte World, N Seoul Tower, Aqua Planet 63, and more.
• For a comfortable stay in Incheon Airport Terminal 2 as you await your flight back home, make sure to book a Matina Gold Lounge Pass here .

Explore more: Get a Korea Travel Card, the Best Prepaid Transportation Card in Korea

Must-Have Travel & Transportation Cards in Seoul

Credit: Go City Korea

From stunning traditional palaces, modern landmarks, and breathtaking sceneries, to transportation, tours, and SIM cards, there’s just a lot you need to consider to book a trip to South Korea. To simplify your planning, we have below the most popular travel and tourist cards in Seoul that will not only give you access to transportation and attractions, but also save you some money!

1. Mobile Discover Seoul Pass

Let’s start with the most popular travel card in Korea: the Discover Seoul Pass. This is an all-in-one pass that will not only let you uncover the best attractions in Seoul, but also score you discounts to a wide variety of venues and activity centers. By getting this pass, you can enjoy free admission to over 65 attractions, including the following:

• Gyeongbokgung (Gyeongbok Palace)
• Deoksu Palace
• Korean Folk Village
• Seodaemun Prison History Hall
• Leeum Museum of Art
• MUSEUM KIMCHIKAN
• N Seoul Tower
• Alive Museum
• COEX Aquarium
• Colorpool Museum

You’ll also get a one-way AREX (Airport Railroad Express) ticket that you can use to go to Seoul from Incheon Airport, among many other perks.

The mobile version of the Discover Seoul Pass is available on for 24, 48, & 72 hours and starts at less than $40!

2. Korea Travel Card

If you’re planning to get T-Money so you can travel in Seoul like locals do, you’d better off getting the Korea Travel Card. This is a prepaid transportation pass that you can use to pay for your subway, bus, and cab fares. It can also be used to pay for your purchases in convenience stores, movie theaters, restaurants, and cafes — perfect if you don’t have a debit/credit card and you’ll visit stores that don’t accept cash anymore (cashless stores). Here are some of the places where you can use this prepaid card:

• Trains & subway lines in Seoul, Gyeonggi, Incheon, Daejeon, and more
• Buses nationwide
• Hanaro Mart
• Coffee Bean
• Krispy Kreme
• Angel-in-us
• Shops in attractions like Lotte World & Everland

What’s more, the Korea Travel Card has a dedicated mobile app so you can easily check the balance of your card and even add credits on it.

The Korea Travel Card only costs around $3.85 and you can easily add money to it at the subway station ticketing machine or at the convenience store.

3. Go City® Seoul All-Inclusive Pass

Now if you want to get the most out of your money, the Go City Seoul All-Inclusive Pass is your best bet! This tourist card not only comes with admission to the best attractions in the Korean capital, but you also get transportation perks and even an 14-day SIM card. Check out all the activities and services you can enjoy by purchasing a 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5-day Go City® Seoul All-Inclusive Pass:

• 14-day Korean SIM Card
• 63 Art Observatory Deck & Aqua Planet 63 Combo Ticket
• Coconut Box and Love Museum
• Cookin’ Nanta Musical Comedy Show
• Dark Side of Seoul: Ghostlore and Urban Legends Walking Tour
• Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) Tour from Seoul
• Dynamic Maze
• Everland Shuttle Bus (Round-Trip from Seoul)
• Han River Cruise (Afternoon or Sunset Cruise)
• Hop-on Hop-off: 1-Day Yellow Balloon City Tour Bus
• Ikseon Boutique Retro Outfit Rental
• Incheon Airport Express Train (One Way)
• K-Pop Hollywood Tour
• Korea Folk Village
• Lotte World and Folk Museum (All-In-One Theme Park Combo Ticket)
• Nami Island Ferry Ticket (Round-Trip)
• Nami Island Shuttle Bus (Round-Trip)
• Ring-making Class (Hongdae branch)
• Ring-making Class (Myeongdong branch)
• School Uniform Rental near Everland
• School Uniform Rental near Lotte World
• Seoul Land Combo Pass (Seoul Land, Seoul Zoo & 1-Way Cable Car Ride)
• Seoul Pub Crawl (Hongdae)
• Seoul Pub Crawl (Itaewon)
• The Dark Side of Seoul Ghost Walking Tour
• Traditional Korean Costume/Hanbok Rental (Changdeok Palace)
• Traditional Korean Costume/Hanbok Rental (Gyeongbok Palace)

The Go City All-Inclusive Card in Seoul regularly starts at $65, but you can book all options on WAUG below with up to 12% discount!

4. Go City® Seoul Explorer Pass

Not planning to visit all the attractions in Seoul but only a few? If you think the Go City® Seoul All-Inclusive Pass or Mobile Discover Seoul Pass is a lot for your trip, you can opt to get the Go City® Seoul Explorer Pass. This is a tourist pass in South Korea that lets you pick 3, 4, 5, 6, or 7 tours and attractions in Seoul that you can visit within a 60-day period. (To compare, the All-Inclusive Pass gives you access to all available attractions for 1-5 days). The partner attractions that you can choose from are almost similar to the All-Inclusive Pass, so you can use the Explorer option to enter N Seoul, Lotte World, Korean Folk Village, Colorpool Museum, and a lot more!

5. Incheon International Airport (T2) Matina Lounge Pass

Last but not least, we recommend getting an airport lounge pass that you can use at Incheon Airport. If the idea of relaxing at the airport after a long and tiring trip excites you, then you need get this pass if your flight departs from Terminal 2. With this pass, you not only get access to a comfortable place for resting, you can also enjoy delicious hot meals, treats, and unlimited wine! Book a Matina Lounge Pass below for only $23 — discounted from the regular price of $37!

How to Book a Transportation & Tourist Card in Korea on WAUG

WAUG, short for “Where are u going?”, is the leading activity booking app from South Korea. If it’s your first time to book, download the app below and get an instant discount coupon that you can use on your first booking!

• Log in or sign up for an account here .
• Select the pass that you’d like to book.
• Choose the date, option, and quantity.
• Check out using your card.
• Receive your voucher on the WAUG app or via email.

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Travel Money Guide: South Korea

Sort out your currency and travel card options before your big trip for a stress-free holiday in south korea..

In this guide

Compare travel money options for South Korea

Travel card, debit card or credit card, how travel cards, credit cards and debit cards work in south korea, why we recommend a combination of travel money options., exchange rate history, buying currency in australia, how much won do i need to bring to south korea.

Travel Money Cards

South Korea boasts ancient villages, buzzing nightlife and some of Asia's best street food for you to indulge in.

While it's easy to get around South Korea with debit and credit cards, if you want to travel on a budget and indulge in some of Korea's best street eats then it's a good idea to have won (the currency of South Korea) for those smaller purchases.

If South Korea is your main destination then we reckon prepaid travel cards are not the best option. Instead, carry a combination of debit card, credit card and local currency for small purchases.

• Travel Credit Cards
• Travel Debit Cards
• Prepaid Travel Money Cards

What should I know about money for South Korea?

You can use your Visa or Mastercard branded credit card, debit card or travel money card almost everywhere in South Korean cities — rural areas are a different story. In fact, you'll find that South Korea is ahead of Australia when it comes to mobile payments. Young Koreans have taken up contactless and mobile technology in droves and you won't have issues finding places where you can use your cards. Having said this, you will need cash too, for example a lot of the cheaper restaurants are cash only. You'll need to factor in ATM withdrawal fees to your comparison of travel money products if you want to do like the locals.

Travel money options for South Korea at a glance

This table is a general summary of the travel money products in the market. Features and benefits can vary between cards.

Here's how the different travel money products are going to work in South Korea.

Using credit cards

Visa, Mastercard and American Express credit cards can be used in South Korea. Some of these cards are cheaper to use than others. Start your comparison by looking at the cards which waive currency conversion charges. This allows you to use your credit card in South Korea to make purchases for roughly the same price as Australia. The card scheme (Visa, Mastercard etc.) exchange rate applies, it's pretty close to the market rate and a touch better than the travel card exchange rate. Bankwest platinum credit cards waive the currency conversion fee; however, avoid withdrawing cash on credit, additional cash advance fees and interest applies and you won't get interest free days. Other perks include complimentary international travel insurance when you charge the cost of your air ticket to your credit card and purchase protection insurance.

• Tip: Some South Korean merchants won't accept a credit card payment for transactions under 10,000 won (about $10 AUD).

Using debit cards

It's hard to fault the Citibank Plus Transaction Account . You get a Visa debit card to use for over the counter purchases and ATM withdrawals where Visa is accepted, which is everywhere you can pay with your card in South Korea. You won't pay extra for currency conversion, you won't pay international ATM fees and Citi don't charge any monthly or account keeping fees. Plus, the best part: Citi has been in the South Korean market since the 60's so there are Citi branches and cash machines all over the country. You can make free ATM withdrawals from Citi ATMs using your Citibank Plus Transaction Account.

• Tip: In Seoul alone there are almost 100 Citi branches and about 40 standalone ATMs.

Using prepaid travel cards

There are no travel cards which let you hold South Korean won. Use a travel card to spend in South Korea and you'll incur the travel card currency conversion fee, which is higher than what's charged on credit and debit cards. There are a limited number of travel cards which do not charge for currency conversion; however, these cards will charge for international ATM withdrawals. The ATM withdrawal fee is comparable to what you'll pay using most debit and credit cards (some credit and debit card providers waive the international ATM fee) but when you factor in card issue fees, reload fees and inactivity fees, a travel card can end up costing you more than if you took a travel friendly debit or credit card. In saying so, you may still want to consider travel prepaid cards if you are visiting other countries whose currencies are covered.

Using traveller's cheques

Traveller's cheques once had a place — in a money belt tucked under your shirt. Today, this travel money product is a hassle to buy, carry and cash. The main benefit of a traveller's cheque is security. Only you can cash your traveller's cheques and they can be replaced if lost or stolen. Credit cards, debit cards and travel cards have the same features. Your bank will give you your money back if you're the victim of card fraud and an emergency replacement card can be sent to you anywhere in the world in a few days.

Getting a refund if you're the victim of a fraudulent transaction

Although card payments are the norm in South Korea, street food, small restaurants and some public transport are cash only — some merchants also won't take cards for purchases under 10,000 won (approx. $10 AUD).

You can make withdrawals at Cash Dispenser Machines or visit an exchange office or bank to get foreign currency changed when you arrive in South Korea. Banks are open from 9am to 4pm Monday to Saturday.

ATM withdrawals in South Korea

There are two types of ATMs in South Korea, those which accept foreign cards and those which don't — cash dispenser (CD) machines generally accept international cards. If you insert your card into an ATM and it gives you an error message, you'll need to search for another machine. Look for the global ATM logo on the front of the ATM and select the English option before you insert your credit, debit or travel card. These types of ATMs are common in public places such as bus and train stations.

Local ATM operator fees will apply. Local Australian and Korean banks do not have fee free partnerships; but you'll find Korean CD machines change the same as ATMs in Australia. If you're a Citi cardholder, you can use your Citi card to withdraw from Citi ATMs in South Korea and you will avoid the local ATM operator fee. There are ATMs throughout Seoul including the at the major airports.

• Tip: Citi are an international financial institution and you won't have a problem using your Australian credit, debit or travel card at a Citi ATM.

You must take more than one way to access your travel funds to Korea. Take a credit card and debit card combination so you know you won't be caught without cash. A credit card can be used for big ticket purchases and to pay for online bookings and a debit card can be used to make over the counter purchases and withdraw cash. All credit cards offer interest free days too, so if you manage your account correctly, you can use your credit card for interest free purchases between statement periods.

Korean culture punches above it's weight on the world stage, which is probably why it's is one of the most visited countries in Asia. Compare travel money options before you leave so you can make the right choices and save on paying unnecessary bank fees.

Australians received almost twice as much Korean won for every dollar exchanged in 2012 than 2006. And in recent years, the value of the Korean won relative to the Aussie dollar has settled back to 2006 levels. This represents a drop of about 30 cents to the dollar over the past 4 years. It can be difficult to predict forex rates; however, South Korea has a stable economy and Australians shouldn't be worried about currency fluctuations affecting the bottom line too much while on holiday.

*Exchange rates are accurate as of 1 January on each year listed above

There are no restrictions to the amount of foreign currency you can bring to Korea. But you must make a customs declaration if you're bringing more than $10,000 cash. Cash includes bank notes and traveller's cheques. You can bring up to 8,000,000 Korean won from Australia. This is approximately $10,000 AUD.

You have a few options for picking up won in Australia. Your bank will be able to sell you cash, you can pick it up at a branch, or you can use a foreign exchange specialist such as Travelex.

South Korea is pricey compared to budget destinations in the region such as Vietnam and Laos, but cheaper than other developed countries such as Japan or Australia. As with all overseas trips, South Korea can be as cheap or expensive as you like.

It all depends on how you eat, where you stay and what you do. Eating like a local offers savings as staple food such as rice and meats are inexpensive, and there are plenty of cafeterias and eateries (cash only) where you can dine for a couple of dollars.

Some of the daily costs for a South Korean holiday

*Prices are indicative and subject to change

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Cash or Card: What to use when traveling to Korea?

Which payment instrument to use is one of the most common concerns when traveling abroad. In planning your trip to Korea, you may have asked yourself with the question, “Should I use cash or cash?” As someone who has been traveling to Korea for 5 years and as a former bank employee, specifically handling card products, here are some insights that will help you decide whether to use cash or card when traveling to Korea.

In this digital age and wider acceptance of digital and card payments, we can say that cash is still king. There are a lot of stores and business establishments that accept card in Korea. However, some merchants still prefer to use cash. This is actually one of things that I wish I knew when I first came to Korea. Specially if you are planning to go to countryside and other provinces, make sure to bring cash with you. Moreover, even in big cities such as Seoul, Busan and Daejeon, some stores in their traditional markets and underground shopping malls only accept cash. But for shops that accept cards (credit, prepaid and debit), cards that are powered by major payment network companies such as Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted.

In terms of security, of course, cards are better to use because of its security features. Unlike cash that can be easily lost or stolen. But being stolen from is not really a concern when you are in Korea. In fact, there are a lot of incidents when people had left their things unattended but it would still be there even after days have passed. Though one thing that I noticed whenever I use card in making a purchase in Korea is that they don’t really ask for valid IDs to verify the signature. But I guess, Korea has in-place measures to counter card fraud due to identity theft and other fraudulent transactions. In terms of online shopping, international cards are accepted too but most of the online shops will require you to have a Korean number for sending of security certificates and OTP (One-Time-Password). And remember to immediately call your bank in case of card lost or suspected card fraud.

Accountability

If you are a budget traveler, you might want to monitor your expenses while you are traveling to Korea. Well, you could do this using your mobile phone too but using card provides a more convenient way to see your previous transactions. Nowadays, most of the banks have their own mobile apps where you could easily check your card usage. In doing that, you could even see the date of purchase, exact amount used, name of merchant and added fees.

And lastly, in terms of savings, which do you think is better, cash or card? If you are traveling to Korea, you can easily exchange your money to Korean won. The exchange rate varies per location, time and date. Obviously, if you exchange at the airport, except higher fees thus, lower conversion of your money. Money exchange outside offers better exchange rates than those from the airport so you can have savings from this. Learn more about where to exchange your money to Korean won here.

On the other hand, if you use your international card in Korea, you can have savings from the following:

1. Low foreign exchange (Forex) conversion rate from your local bank or card provider.

Forex rate varies per bank but it could be from 1.5% to 3.5%. It is usually comprised of the 1% payment network assessment fee (example: Mastercard and Visa) and the remaining percent for your local bank foreign exchange conversion fee.

Here is a sample computation from my local bank (BPI) which charges 1.85% forex fee. Note that for me to be able to enjoy this low forex rate, I need to have my transaction in Korea be processed or billed in Korean won instead of being billed in my local currency. This will I will not be imposed with unfavorable rate from the Korea’s local bank versus BPI’s offer. Disclaimer: This is not a sponsored post.

2. Promotions from your local banks or card provider.

Some banks and card providers are offering promotions when you use your card abroad. It could be in the form of rebates, points, gifts, vouchers and etc. that could save you extra money.

If you find this article interesting and helpful, share it with your friends. For more Korea travel tips like this, subscribe to KoreabyMe and read  my other published articles  on the site. You can follow me on  Instagram  too!

A scholar, marketer, educator, traveler, and ultimately, a fangirl currently living in South Korea. I mostly write about Hallyu-related places as well tips on traveling and living in Korea.

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Holiday money - where to buy it, how to avoid fees, and one thing you must not do

Credit card, debit card or cash? We have spoken to experts to find out the best way to buy your holiday money this summer.

Live news reporter @bradley_jyoung

Monday 17 June 2024 07:53, UK

UK residents spend billions of pounds abroad each year, but it can be difficult to know how to make sterling go as far as possible.

With summer fast approaching, so too are the opportunities to splash out on holidays, so the Money team spoke with travel experts to find out when, where and how to pay abroad.

CREDIT CARD

"The cheapest way to spend overseas is often on plastic , if you've got the right plastic," said James Jones, head of consumer affairs at Experian.

"Using credit and debit cards can be a great way to get the very best exchange rates."

He said rates offered by currency exchange shops are usually "much less attractive" than those offered on some cards, which were much closer to the rates the banks use themselves.

Fees could wipe out any gains

But it's essential to be aware of things like non-sterling transaction fees, cash withdrawal fees and credit card interest.

So shop around for a card with travel rewards, Mr Jones said - and do this before your trip.

"You probably need to give yourself, ideally, six weeks."

Extra protection

When you book a trip between £100 and £30,000, try and pay for some of it on a credit card to get "extra protection" under section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act, said Mr Jones.

That means the card provider is jointly responsible with the retailer if something goes wrong, such as arriving at a hotel only to find it has closed down.

If you are using a credit card, make sure you are can pay it off in full to avoid interest charges, said Sean Tipton from the Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA).

One trap you must not falling into

An increasingly common trap when paying with card (credit or debit) is being presented with the option to pay in the local currency or in pounds, said Mr Jones and Mr Tipton.

While paying in sterling might "seem like a wonderful convenience" you will ultimately be paying "quite a bit more for the purchase", Mr Jones said.

If you pay in pounds, the local retailer's bank sets the exchange rate, but if you pay in the local currency, your UK bank sets the rate.

DEBIT CARDS

"Some service providers don't apply fees for overseas use on their regular UK debit cards," says Moneyfacts - but you must always check as some incur big fees.

Alternatively, "some service providers offer specialist travel debit cards that don't impose non-sterling transaction fees and cash withdrawal fees".

PREPAID TRAVEL CARDS

If you're looking to avoid a credit check, prepaid cards can be loaded with multiple currencies and work like a debit card, without being connected to your bank.

"Typically, prepaid travel cards will offer competitive or even no charges for foreign usage, which can make them a cheaper alternative to using a normal credit or debit card while on holiday," says MoneyFacts.

One of the most popular prepaid cards, Revolut, uses its own exchange rates, which might not always be the best you can find - and while it is fee free on weekdays, there are charges at weekends, so do your research.

Also be aware - prepaid cards do not offer purchase protection like a credit card and aren't regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

"Don't rely solely on a card - it can backfire on you if you do," said Mr Tipton.

Some taxis only take cash, leaving you to face hefty charges withdrawing from an ATM.

In some countries, like Argentina, it can be difficult to get money out of ATMs without a local bank account, Mr Tipton said.

Mr Jones added: "If you're in a very remote part of the world that actually doesn't have many ATMs and maybe where cash is king, then that might dictate what you need to do."

Where and when to get cash

"I'd strongly recommend [to] get some cash out in the UK," said Mr Tipton.

It can be difficult to find a bureau de change in some developing nations, and ATMs have "started introducing quite hefty charges" across the board, he said.

The exceptions are countries with really high inflation rates, where it may make more sense to get cash out when you arrive, he added.

When to exchange currency really depends on the destination, said Laura Plunkett, head of travel money at the Post Office.

"Exchange rates change frequently, so if you have time, do your homework and lock in a rate when it is good."

Read more: Wizz Air ranked worst airline for delays for third year running World's best restaurant named - this is how much it costs to eat there Think twice before buying your holiday clothes from Zara

What is a good exchange rate for Europe?

Some 80% of British holidays abroad take place in the Eurozone, said Mr Tipton.

The rate has remained "fairly stable", but if you see the pound increasing in value that may be the time to buy a larger amount of Euros for a couple of years in advance, he added.

Mr Tipton said 1.2 to the pound is a "pretty healthy" time to buy, but "it is a bit of a lottery".

Every year the pound gets stronger against the South African rand, and the same in Argentina, where the peso is "unbelievably weak", Mr Tipton suggested.

In store or online?

"Most online suppliers will insist on a minimum order value that might be too high for some people, and you'll have to make sure that you're home for when it's delivered," said Ms Plunkett.

"But typically, rates are better online if that's an option for you."

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5 Things to Know About the Korean Air Skypass Credit Cards

Craig Joseph is a NerdWallet lead writer and credit cards expert. He has degrees in geology from West Virginia University and oceanography from Oregon State University and has published in academic journals, newspapers and blogs. Craig is passionate about personal finance and wants to enhance the financial literacy of everyone he meets. He'll probably also try to convince you why rocks are cool.

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U.S. Bank issues multiple Korean Air Skypass credit cards that offer cardholders the rare opportunity to earn Skypass miles without flying:

The SKYPASS SkyBlue Visa® Card .

The SKYPASS Visa® Signature Credit Card .

The SKYPASS Select Visa Signature® Card .

Korean Air doesn’t partner with any of the major transferable credit card programs, so if you’re looking to earn a slug of Skypass miles, one of these cards may be your best option. But if you’re not a Korean Airlines loyalist, you would probably do better with a general travel card or another airline card .

Here are five things to know about the Korean Air Skypass credit cards.

U.S. Bank previously issued a secured SKYPASS credit card , but that product is no longer available. U.S. Bank also issues the SKYPASS Visa Signature Business Card for small-business owners. This review focuses on the three consumer cards above only.

1. There are several Skypass cards

There are three consumer Korean Air Skypass cards to choose from, including two with an annual fee and one without. As usual, the higher the card’s fee, the more benefits and perks you’ll receive.

Earn 10,000 Bonus Miles when you spend $1,000 in eligible purchases within 90 days.

Earn 40,000 Bonus Miles when you spend $4,000 in eligible purchases within the first 90 days.

Earn 60,000 Bonus Miles when you spend $5,000 in eligible purchases within the first 90 days.

Earn 2 SKYPASS miles per $1 spent on streaming and rideshare services.

Earn 1 SKYPASS mile per $1 spent on all other eligible purchases.

Earn 2 SKYPASS miles per $1 spent on purchases with Korean Air tickets, restaurants and hotels.

Earn 3 SKYPASS miles per $1 spent on Korean Air tickets.

Earn 2 SKYPASS miles per $1 spent on other airline tickets, restaurants, hotels and car rentals.

No additional benefits.

Earn 2 Korean Airlines lounge coupons annually.

Save 5% on a Korean Airlines ticket for you and a companion annually.

No foreign transaction fees.

Save 5% on a Korean Airlines ticket for you and a companion twice annually.

Receive 2 $25 duty-free coupons annually.

Receive a $200 annual travel credit.

Receive a $100 credit for TSA PreCheck or Global Entry.

Trip cancellation, interruption and delay reimbursement.

While the ability to earn Skypass miles on a $0-annual-fee card is nice, you’d have to put a lot of spending on the SKYPASS SkyBlue Visa® Card to earn enough miles for an award ticket (see more below). You also won’t receive any additional benefits or perks when you fly.

The $99 -annual-fee SKYPASS Visa® Signature Credit Card lets holders earn a big sign-up offer and bonus miles on Korean Air tickets, dining and hotels, in addition to two Korean Air lounge coupons annually. These benefits are similar to other airline credit cards with comparable annual fees.

The SKYPASS Select Visa Signature® Card is built for Korean Air loyalists. The card’s benefits, including an annual $200 travel credit and two $25 duty-free coupons, can help offset the massive $450 annual fee, and the bonus categories are designed to reward frequent travelers.

» SEE: The guide to the Korean Air Skypass program

2. You’ll need good credit to qualify

According to U.S. Bank, you’ll need good to excellent credit to qualify for any of the three Skypass cards (typically, that would mean FICO scores of 690 or higher). If your credit scores fall in that range and you’re a Korean Air loyalist, one of these cards might be worth a look.

3. Skypass miles are tough to acquire …

Korean Air has only one travel transfer partner, Marriott Bonvoy , with Marriott points transferring to Skypass at a 3:1 ratio. And since the airline doesn’t partner with any of the major credit card points programs , Skypass miles are harder to acquire than other airline miles.

That leaves flying on Korean Air or a partner airline and spending on a Skypass credit card as the primary ways to acquire Skypass miles.

» MORE: How to make the most of Korean Air economy class

4. … But there are plenty of redemption options

Since Korean Air is a member of the SkyTeam Alliance , Korean Air miles can be redeemed on partner airlines like Delta Air Lines and Air France , in addition to nonalliance partners like Alaska Airlines . The Skypass program has multiple award charts you can use to determine the number of miles required for a specific redemption: one for flights on Korean Air, one for flights on SkyTeam partners, one for non-SkyTeam partner redemptions and a round-the-world award chart for multistop itineraries circling the globe.

Partner airline redemptions offer the best value. For example, as of this writing, you can use 25,000 Skypass miles to fly round trip on Delta between mainland North America and Hawaii. Or you can use 30,000 miles to fly round trip on Alaska Airlines between the U.S. and Costa Rica. Redemption values on flights operated by Korean Air vary depending on the time of year.

You can also redeem miles for access to the Korean Air Lounge, as well as for baggage fees, car rentals and hotel stays in partner hotels.

» MORE: 5 award sweet spots using Korean Air Skypass miles

5. You won’t want to carry a balance

The Skypass cards may be good for earning airline miles, but using them to finance a purchase or carry a balance will be expensive. That’s because your interest rate could range almost as high as 30% as of this writing.

If you need time to pay off your card balance, you’d do better with a low-interest card that offers an introductory 0% APR period. You may not earn airline miles with those cards, but the money you save in interest will far outweigh the value of any miles you’d earn on the Skypass cards.

» MORE: Credit cards with long 0% intro APR periods

On a similar note...

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Best rewards credit cards of June 2024

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Rewards credit cards are a great way to earn points, miles or cash back on your spending. Cash back is typically the simplest form of rewards, but miles or points may offer higher redemption value, especially for travel.

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Best Rewards Credit Cards for June 2024

• Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card : Best starter travel card
• Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card : Best for flat-rate travel rewards
• Citi Strata Premier℠ Card : Best for hotel bookings
• American Express® Gold Card : Best for food and travel
• Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card : Best for flat-rate cash rewards
• Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card : Best no-annual-fee travel card
• Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card : Best overall
• The Platinum Card® from American Express : Best for luxury travel
• Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Card : Best for easy-to-earn credits
• Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card : Best for affordable travel perks
• Chase Freedom Unlimited® : Best for everyday spending
• Discover it® Cash Back : Best for category variety
• Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card : Best starter rewards card
• Chase Sapphire Reserve® : Best rewards value
• Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express : Best for groceries
• Citi Custom Cash® Card : Best for gas
• Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card : Best for everyday travel
• Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card : Best for savers
• Bilt Mastercard® : Best for paying rent
• American Express® Business Gold Card : Best for small-business owners
• Prime Visa : Best for online shopping

What is a rewards credit card?

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Credit range

A FICO score/credit score is used to represent the creditworthiness of a person and may be one indicator to the credit type you are eligible for. However, credit score alone does not guarantee or imply approval for any financial product.

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In determining which cards were worthy of “Best Overall” distinction on marketplace pages, our editorial team reviewed the cards currently available on each page and narrowed the list of candidates to only those cards that either:

• A) had received a minimum 4.0-star overall rating in their primary scoring category based on our proprietary card rating methodology , or 
• B) were currently the highest-rated card on the page. 

We then surveyed an internal panel of expert credit card writers and editors as to which card from the candidate list was most deserving of a “Best Overall” distinction. The winner was selected based on popular vote.

Best starter travel card

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

Bankrate score

Our writers, editors and industry experts score credit cards based on a variety of factors including card features, bonus offers and independent research. Credit card issuers have no say or influence on how we rate cards.

Intro offer

Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

60,000 bonus points

We calculate this number by multiplying the card's intro offer by Bankrate's valuation of this issuer's rewards program , showing you how much your points or miles are worth in dollars.

Rewards rate

5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠. 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries. 2x on all other travel purchases. 1x on all other purchases.

Regular APR

21.49% - 28.49% Variable

• 5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠.
• 3x 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries.
• 2x 2x on all other travel purchases.
• 1x 1x on all other purchases.

What we love: Occasional travelers who value flexibility can enjoy this card’s excellent rewards on both travel and everyday spending, stellar travel protections and other lucrative benefits . It already delivers top-notch long-term value with its remarkable redemption options, Chase card pairing options and transfer partners.  Plus, the hefty welcome offer makes the short-term rewards value exceptional as well. Learn more:   Is the Chase Sapphire Preferred worth it? Alternatives:   The Citi Strata Premier℠ Card could be more rewarding if you’d benefit from a larger pool of everyday reward categories and stronger benefits and rewards rates for hotel stays. However, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is worth considering if you just want straightforward, flat-rate rewards without sacrificing valuable transfer partners. 

• Its annual hotel statement credits and anniversary points bonus can carry enough value to easily justify the annual fee.
• Thanks to the 25 percent redemption value boost via Chase Travel, Ultimate Rewards points are some of the most valuable rewards available through both transfer partners and the issuer portal.
• It doesn’t have flight-focused travel perks like airport lounge access or free checked bags.
• The card's grocery rewards rate only applies to eligible online grocery purchases, which could limit its appeal as a standalone option for everyday rewards.
• Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
• Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases, $50 Annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit, plus more.
• Get 25% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Travel℠. For example, 60,000 points are worth $750 toward travel.
• Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
• Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2024.
• Member FDIC

Best for flat-rate travel rewards

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

New Venture cardholders can earn 75,000 miles once they spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening

Earn 75,000 miles

5 Miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel. 2 Miles per dollar on every purchase, every day.

2 Miles - 5 Miles

19.99% - 29.99% (Variable)

• 5 Miles 5 Miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
• 2 Miles 2 Miles per dollar on every purchase, every day

The flat 2X rewards rate on purchases makes this a great travel starter card for all types of spenders since you can earn flexible miles even without spending a ton on travel. You also have the unique option to redeem miles for statement credits toward eligible past travel purchases. Learn more: Why expert Jacqueline DeMarco loves the Capital One Venture Alternative: The Capital One Venture X may be more lucrative overall thanks to its practical perks and high-value annual credits. 

• According to Bankrate's valuations , each mile is worth on average 2 cents if redeemed through a Capital One transfer partner — great value for a flat-rate card.
• You can take advantage of statement credits for valuable perks like expedited security screening, making the already-low annual fee easy to offset.
• The welcome offer has a high spend requirement, so it may not be easy to attain.
• Some competitors provide more eye-catching perks like annual hotel credits, account anniversary bonus points and ridesharing perks.
• Unless you take advantage of Capital One’s transfer partners, your miles will only be worth 1 cent (or less, for non-travel redemptions). Other travel cards offer a higher point value if you redeem through the issuer’s portal.
• Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel
• Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day
• Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
• Miles won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how many you can earn
• Receive up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck®
• Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
• Enrich every hotel stay from the Lifestyle Collection with a suite of cardholder benefits, like a $50 experience credit, room upgrades, and more
• Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs

Best for hotel bookings

Citi Strata Premier℠ Card

• Earn 70,000 bonus ThankYou® Points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months of account opening, redeemable for $700 in gift cards or travel rewards at thankyou.com

70,000 bonus points

Earn 10 points per $1 spent on Hotels, Car Rentals, and Attractions booked on CitiTravel.com. Earn 3 points per $1 on Air Travel and Other Hotel Purchases, at Restaurants, Supermarkets, Gas and EV Charging Stations. Earn 1 Point per $1 spent on all other purchases.

21.24% - 29.24% (Variable)

• 10X Earn 10 points per $1 spent on Hotels, Car Rentals, and Attractions booked on CitiTravel.com.
• 3X Earn 3 points per $1 on Air Travel and Other Hotel Purchases, at Restaurants, Supermarkets, Gas and EV Charging Stations.
• 1X Earn 1 Point per $1 spent on all other purchases

What we love: Its annual hotel benefit could offer terrific value even if you only make a few trips per year. Spend $500 on a single hotel booking through CitiTravel.com each calendar year and you’ll instantly get a $100 benefit— enough to offset the annual fee all on its own. Alternatives:   The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card may offer more value for both frequent travelers and everyday spenders, thanks mostly to its high point redemption value. And while its hotel perk is only worth up to $50 in annual statement credits toward hotel stays through Chase Travel, you’ll only need to spend $50 to earn it (versus $500 with the Strata Premier).

• It earns rewards in several key everyday spending categories, so it should be easy to earn travel points even if you don’t actually spend a ton on travel.
• It stacks exceptionally well with no-annual-fee Citi rewards cards, giving you a chance to maximize your rewards in nearly every major spending category.
• You’ll only earn the annual hotel benefit if you book a single hotel stay of $500 or more (excluding taxes and fees) through CitiTravel.com. That’s pretty inflexible.
• Bankrate estimates that Citi rewards carry a lower average redemption value (around 1.6 cents per point) than several competing programs (some of which offer 2 cents per point or more in value).
• Earn 10 points per $1 spent on Hotels, Car Rentals, and Attractions booked on CitiTravel.com.
• Earn 3 points per $1 on Air Travel and Other Hotel Purchases, at Restaurants, Supermarkets, Gas and EV Charging Stations.
• Earn 1 Point per $1 spent on all other purchases
• $100 Annual Hotel Benefit: Once per calendar year, enjoy $100 off a single hotel stay of $500 or more (excluding taxes and fees) when booked through CitiTravel.com. Benefit applied instantly at time of booking.
• No expiration and no limit to the amount of points you can earn with this card
• No Foreign Transaction Fees on purchases

Best for food and travel

American Express® Gold Card

Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases with your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership.

Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® Points

Earn 4X Membership Rewards® Points at Restaurants, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S. Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1X). Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com.

See Pay Over Time APR

• 4X Earn 4X Membership Rewards® Points at Restaurants, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S.
• 4X Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1X).
• 3X Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com.

What we love: This premium card offers one of the best rewards rates you can get with a single card on both dining and U.S. supermarket purchases, plus stellar travel rewards value via its list of Amex transfer partners. It has a pricey annual fee, but traveling foodies might find the additional yearly credits on eligible dining, Uber and hotel purchases (through American Express Travel) valuable enough to nearly offset the $250 annual fee . Learn more: Why expert Matt Bundrick loves the Amex Gold Alternative: For a higher annual fee, the Amex Platinum and the Chase Sapphire Reserve are smart picks if you’re itching for more than dining rewards since both offer better travel perks , rewards and protections. But the Capital One SavorOne or Chase Sapphire Preferred could be a better fit if you want excellent dining and grocery rewards for a more modest annual fee.

• Transferring points to partner airline or hotel loyalty programs, which include popular brands like Delta and Hilton, can get you more value.
• You can earn additional rewards by enrolling in Amex Offers.
• You'll need to use the annual credits or transfer points for travel frequently to offset the annual fee.
• Your points are worth much less if you redeem them to cover dining purchases or any travel purchases other than airfare (they’re often worth half as much or less).
• Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases with your new Card within the first 6 months of Card Membership.
• Earn 4X Membership Rewards® Points at Restaurants, plus takeout and delivery in the U.S., and earn 4X Membership Rewards® points at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per calendar year in purchases, then 1X).
• Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked directly with airlines or on amextravel.com.
• $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and each month automatically get $10 in Uber Cash for Uber Eats orders or Uber rides in the U.S., totaling up to $120 per year.
• $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings and earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, Milk Bar and select Shake Shack locations. Enrollment required.
• Get a $100 experience credit with a minimum two-night stay when you book The Hotel Collection through American Express Travel. Experience credit varies by property.
• Choose the color that suits your style. Gold or Rose Gold.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees.
• Annual Fee is $250.
• Terms Apply.

Best for flat-rate cash rewards

Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card

Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months

$200 cash rewards

• Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases.

20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% Variable APR

• 2% Earn unlimited 2% cash rewards on purchases

What we love: This well-rounded card carries one of the highest flat cash rewards rates available. Since there’s no need to track categories or jump through additional hoops, it’s an especially good fit if you prefer a simple cash rewards structure. Learn more: Expert Aja McClanahan discusses if the Wells Fargo Active Cash is worth it Alternative: The Citi Double Cash® Card may be a better option if you’re looking for a long intro APR balance transfer offer. The Chase Freedom Unlimited® could also be more valuable thanks to its additional 3 percent cash back categories. 

• Paying your monthly cellphone bill with your card earns you cellphone protection, a relatively valuable perk.
• You can redeem your rewards as physical cash in $20 increments when you use a Wells Fargo ATM — a convenient option missing from many rewards cards.
• Though it comes with Visa Signature® features, the Active Cash card's extra perks are otherwise limited.
• You cannot transfer rewards to airline or hotel loyalty programs and can only redeem through Wells Fargo.
• Select "Apply Now" to take advantage of this specific offer and learn more about product features, terms and conditions.
• Earn a $200 cash rewards bonus after spending $500 in purchases in the first 3 months.
• 0% intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and qualifying balance transfers. 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% Variable APR thereafter; balance transfers made within 120 days qualify for the intro rate and fee of 3% then a BT fee of up to 5%, min: $5.
• $0 annual fee.
• No categories to track or remember and cash rewards don't expire as long as your account remains open.
• Find tickets to top sports and entertainment events, book travel, make dinner reservations and more with your complimentary 24/7 Visa Signature® Concierge.
• Up to $600 of cell phone protection against damage or theft. Subject to a $25 deductible.

Best no-annual-fee travel card

Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

• Earn a bonus of 20,000 miles once you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $200 in travel

20,000 miles

5 Miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel. 1.25 Miles per dollar on every purchase, every day.

1.25 Miles - 5 Miles

• 1.25 Miles 1.25 Miles per dollar on every purchase, every day

What we love: Although you only earn 1.25X miles on purchases other than Capital One Travel hotel and rental car bookings, its intro APR offer and transfer partners make it a great option for savings-minded travelers and rewards beginners alike. Learn more: 7 reasons to get the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Card Alternative: If you prioritize a card’s rewards rate over basic travel perks and transfer partners, consider the no-annual-fee Discover it® Miles card or the Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card for a 1.5X reward rate on all purchases that can be redeemed for versatile travel purchase statement credits. 

• You can transfer miles to airline and hotel partners — a rare perk for a no-annual-fee travel card.
• There’s a relatively lengthy intro APR period for purchase and balance transfer— uncommon for a travel mile card.
• If you don’t plan on transferring rewards to Capital One’s travel partners, another travel rewards card may offer better point redemption value.
• If you usually fly within the U.S., keep in mind that Capital One’s transfer partners don’t include any major domestic airlines or hotels outside the Wyndham brand.
• $0 annual fee and no foreign transaction fees
• Earn unlimited 1.25X miles on every purchase, every day
• Enjoy 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months; 19.99% - 29.99% variable APR after that; balance transfer fee applies

Best overall

Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card

• Earn a one-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening

8% Cash Back on Capital One Entertainment purchases. 5% Cash Back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel (terms apply). 3% Cash Back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services and at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart® and Target®). 1% Cash Back on all other purchases.

• 8% 8% Cash Back on Capital One Entertainment purchases
• 5% 5% Cash Back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel (terms apply)
• 3% 3% Cash Back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services and at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart® and Target®)
• 1% 1% Cash Back on all other purchases

Why it’s the best overall: "If I had to pick one rewards card to use for all of my spending, this would be near the top of my list. Its low cost and great rewards rate in some of my most important everyday spending categories mean it offers terrific standalone value. It’s an even better fit now that I have a Capital One travel card and can transfer rewards to it (and maybe even squeeze more value out of them)."  — Nouri Zarrugh , Senior Editor, Credit Cards What we love: This card’s terrific mix of everyday bonus categories makes it a top pick if you want a single card that earns rewards on food and fun. You’ll earn an excellent unlimited cash back rate at restaurants, grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart® and Target®) and even on many entertainment purchases that don’t typically earn credit card rewards — like tickets to movies, sporting events and more. Learn more: Is the Capital One SavorOne worth it? Alternative: If you don’t spend much at the grocery store or on entertainment, then the Chase Freedom Unlimited® may be a better option . You'll have plenty of chances to earn cash back in multiple bonus categories (including dining) and a fair flat rate for all other eligible purchases. 

• It’s easily one of the most well-rounded rewards cards available thanks to its generous cash back rates and variety, accessible welcome offer and long intro APR periods.
• It offers automatic cash back redemption — a relatively rare option that can make the rewards experience even easier.
• Superstores and wholesale clubs like Walmart, Target, BJ’s and Sam’s Club do not count for elevated rewards rates, which may limit your potential earnings.
• You can redeem cash rewards on Amazon.com, but there is a list of restricted items .
• Earn unlimited 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services and at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart® and Target®), plus 1% on all other purchases
• Earn 10% cash back on purchases made through Uber & Uber Eats, plus complimentary Uber One membership statement credits through 11/14/2024
• Earn 8% cash back on Capital One Entertainment purchases
• Earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options. Terms apply
• No rotating categories or sign-ups needed to earn cash rewards; plus cash back won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how much you can earn
• 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months; 19.99% - 29.99% variable APR after that; balance transfer fee applies
• No foreign transaction fee
• No annual fee

Best for luxury travel

The Platinum Card® from American Express

Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.

Earn 80,000 points

Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year. Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.

• 5X Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year.
• 5X Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.

What we love: This card’s perks, protections and credits eclipse those of competing travel cards, offering thousands in value and making it easy to justify its expensive annual fee. If you take advantage of its luxury travel and shopping benefits, this can be one of the best travel cards available. Learn more: Is the Amex Platinum worth the yearly fee? Alternative: The Amex Platinum's perks may not be a great fit for some cardholders. The Chase Sapphire Reserve or Capital One Venture X may offer more practical perks at a lower cost. 

• You could earn perhaps the most valuable welcome offer currently available when applying for the Amex Platinum through CardMatch : 150,000 points after spending $8,000 on purchases within the first six months.
• Carries perhaps the most comprehensive lounge access, hotel privileges and travel benefits of any mainstream personal card.
• Several annual credits and perks aren’t practical for many cardholders (like the Equinox and private jet program offers), which may make the $695 annual fee tough to offset.
• The bonus category coverage is quite narrow, so you’ll have to lean on the extra perks for the bulk of your value.
• Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Apply and select your preferred metal Card design: classic Platinum, Platinum x Kehinde Wiley, or Platinum x Julie Mehretu.
• Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
• $200 Hotel Credit: Get up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings with American Express Travel when you pay with your Platinum Card®. The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
• $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back in statement credits each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card® on one or more of the following: Disney+, a Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peacock, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
• The American Express Global Lounge Collection® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market. As of 03/2023.
• $155 Walmart+ Credit: Save on eligible delivery fees, shipping, and more with a Walmart+ membership. Use your Platinum Card® to pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership and get up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes back on one membership (excluding Plus Ups) each month.
• $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card®.
• $200 Uber Cash: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only. Terms Apply.
• $189 CLEAR® Plus Credit: CLEAR® Plus helps to get you to your gate faster at 50+ airports nationwide and get up to $189 back per calendar year on your Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Card. CLEARLanes are available at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues.
• Receive either a $100 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 year period for TSA PreCheck® application fee for a 5-year plan only (through a TSA PreCheck® official enrollment provider), when charged to your Platinum Card®. Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
• Shop Saks with Platinum: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases in Saks Fifth Avenue stores or at saks.com on your Platinum Card®. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
• Unlock access to exclusive reservations and special dining experiences with Global Dining Access by Resy when you add your Platinum Card® to your Resy profile.
• $695 annual fee.

Best for easy-to-earn credits

Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Card

• Earn 60,000 bonus points when you spend $4,000 in purchases in the first 3 months – that’s $600 toward your next trip.

Earn unlimited 5X points on hotels. Earn unlimited 4X points on airlines. Earn unlimited 3X points on other travel and restaurants. Earn 1X points on other purchases.

21.24%, 26.24%, or 29.99% Variable APR

• 5X Earn unlimited 5X points on hotels
• 4X Earn unlimited 4X points on airlines
• 3X Earn unlimited 3X points on other travel and restaurants
• 1X Earn 1X points on other purchases

What we love: Though the card carries an annual fee ($95), it should be easy to offset thanks to the $50 statement credit you can earn each year you make a $50 minimum airline purchase. Earning this should be no problem even for occasional travelers. Plus, you aren’t forced to use the credit toward future airfare or hotel bookings as you are with some competing travel cards. Alternatives: The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is one of its main competitors since it also carries a $95 annual fee and earns rewards in many of the same categories. It has a leg up when it comes to redemption, though, since its points are worth 25 percent more when you use them to book Chase travel.

• Redemption is flexible: You can use rewards for travel and cash back without worrying about point values, or you can transfer to one of the issuer’s new airline and hotel partners.
• It carries a decent mix of practical travel perks, including lost baggage reimbursement and trip cancellation protection that can reimburse you up to $15,000 for lodging, flights, and activities if your trip is canceled for a covered reason.
• It offers a different rewards rate for hotels, airfare and other travel, making it a bit harder to keep up with than a mid-tier card that offers a flat rewards rate on all travel purchases.
• You can only stack travel points with the Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card, and several of its bonus categories overlap with the Autograph Journey card’s.
• Select “Apply Now” to take advantage of this specific offer and learn more about product features, terms and conditions.
• Earn unlimited 5X points on hotels, 4X points on airlines, 3X points on other travel and restaurants, and 1X points on other purchases.
• $95 annual fee.
• Book your travel with the Autograph Journey Card and enjoy Travel Accident Insurance, Lost Baggage Reimbursement, Trip Cancellation and Interruption Protection and Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver.
• Earn a $50 annual statement credit with $50 minimum airline purchase.
• Up to $1,000 of cell phone protection against damage or theft. Subject to a $25 deductible.

Best for affordable travel perks

Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

• Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel

75,000 miles

10 Miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel. 5 Miles per dollar on flights booked through Capital One Travel. 2 Miles per dollar on every purchase, every day.

2 Miles - 10 Miles

• 10 Miles 10 Miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
• 5 Miles 5 Miles per dollar on flights booked through Capital One Travel

What we love: Yearly perks like $300 in annual credits for Capital One travel bookings can make the Venture X worth it for both occasional and frequent travelers who want top-tier perks at a lower cost than competing luxury cards. Learn more: Why the Capital One Venture X is great for saving on your next trip Alternative: If you don't think you'll use Venture X’s features , consider a lower-cost travel card instead. The base Venture card also earns a flat 2X miles, while the Chase Sapphire Preferred can offer higher redemption value and other bonus categories beyond travel. 

• Since the card’s travel perks make it easy to offset the annual fee, you won’t have to worry about offsetting the card’s cost with earning enough rewards.
• You’ll also enjoy Visa Infinite benefits (including exclusive travel concierge service) and the Capital One Travel portal’s AI-powered pricing perks for more affordable bookings.
• It’s missing a number of the luxury benefits you’ll find on rival cards, like an annual CLEAR membership credit, complimentary hotel or airline loyalty status and other airline hotel and restaurant partner perks.
• Its biggest drawback is perhaps Capital One’s lack of major domestic airline partners, which limits the value of your miles compared to rewards on other travel cards.
• Receive a $300 annual credit for bookings through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options
• Get 10,000 bonus miles (equal to $100 towards travel) every year, starting on your first anniversary
• Earn unlimited 10X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and 5X miles on flights booked through Capital One Travel
• Earn unlimited 2X miles on all other purchases
• Unlimited complimentary access for you and two guests to 1,300+ lounges, including Capital One Lounges and the Partner Lounge Network
• Use your Venture X miles to easily cover travel expenses, including flights, hotels, rental cars and more—you can even transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs
• Elevate every hotel stay from the Premier or Lifestyle Collections with a suite of cardholder benefits, like an experience credit, room upgrades, and more

Best for category variety

Discover it® Cash Back

• Intro Offer: Unlimited Cashback Match for all new cardmembers – only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year! There’s no minimum spending or maximum rewards. You could turn $150 cash back into $300.

Cashback Match

Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places you shop each quarter like grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and more, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate. Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases - automatically.

18.24% - 28.24% Variable APR

• 5% Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places you shop each quarter like grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and more, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate.
• 1% Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases - automatically.

What we love: Discover’s cash back calendar usually is packed with essential everyday categories, so there are plenty of opportunities to rake in cash back if you don’t mind strategizing where and when to shop each quarter. This impressive card also boasts market-low rates and fees and a valuable cash back match welcome offer at the end of the first year. Learn more: Why expert Holly Johnson loves the Discover it® Cash Back Alternative: If you’re looking to maximize your seasonal spending rewards, you may get more value from the Chase Freedom Flex℠ thanks to its rotating bonus categories plus year-round 3 percent dining and drugstore categories, which can give you more cash back to lean on if a quarterly category doesn’t align with your spending. 

• It’s one of the best cash back cards on the market if you’re looking for minimal fees: no annual fee, foreign transaction fees, penalty APR or fee on your first late payment (up to $41 after that). You’ll also enjoy solid intro APR offers and a decent ongoing APR.
• Its rotating bonus category variety is nearly unmatched, typically including everything from groceries to online shopping.
• You must activate and track your bonus categories each quarter, which could make the card too high-maintenance for some applicants.
• The card carries hardly any additional features (like travel insurance or other credits) beyond its rewards and low rates and fees.
• It has a quarterly spending cap for bonus categories.
• Earn 5% cash back on everyday purchases at different places you shop each quarter like grocery stores, restaurants, gas stations, and more, up to the quarterly maximum when you activate. Plus, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases—automatically.
• Redeem your rewards for cash at any time.
• Discover could help you reduce exposure of your personal information online by helping you remove it from select people-search sites that could sell your data. It’s free, activate with the mobile app.
• Get a 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases. Then 18.24% to 28.24% Standard Variable Purchase APR applies, based on credit worthiness.
• No annual fee.
• Terms and conditions apply.

Best card for everyday spending

Chase Freedom Unlimited®

Earn an extra 1.5% on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) — worth up to $300 cash back. That’s 6.5% on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 4.5% on dining and drugstores, and 3% on all other purchases.

Up to $300 cash back

Enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more. 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service. 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.

20.49% - 29.24% Variable

• 5% Enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more.
• 3% 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service.
• 1.5% 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.

What we love: This unique card not only earns an elevated rewards rate on all purchases, but also gives you an edge over similar cards with its year-round dining and drugstore bonus categories. If you want to pick one card and stick with it, this is a great choice.   Learn more: Is the Chase Freedom Unlimited worth it? Alternatives: A 2 percent flat-rate cash back card like the Citi Double Cash® Card could be better if you’re focused on flat-rate rewards. A card designed for everyday spending, like the Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card or the Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express could also be more lucrative as a standalone option.

• With solid earning rates, a decent sign-up bonus, and a strong intro APR offer, this is a great card for any rewards enthusiast.
• You can combine this card’s rewards with other premium Chase rewards to unlock more value through travel redemptions and partners.
• A few rival no-annual-fee cards carry a higher rewards rate on general spending.
• The welcome offer could require more effort to earn the typical $200 value other cards can deliver.
• Intro Offer: Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!
• Enjoy 6.5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, our premier rewards program that lets you redeem rewards for cash back, travel, gift cards and more; 4.5% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 3% on all other purchases (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year).
• After your first year or $20,000 spent, enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.
• No minimum to redeem for cash back. You can choose to receive a statement credit or direct deposit into most U.S. checking and savings accounts. Cash Back rewards do not expire as long as your account is open!
• Enjoy 0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 20.49% - 29.24%.
• No annual fee – You won't have to pay an annual fee for all the great features that come with your Freedom Unlimited® card
• Keep tabs on your credit health, Chase Credit Journey helps you monitor your credit with free access to your latest score, alerts, and more.

Best starter rewards card

Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card

• Earn a one-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening

Earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options. Terms apply. Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase, every day.

• 5% Earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options. Terms apply
• 1.5% Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase, every day

What we love: If you’re new to rewards and want to keep things simple, this card’s straightforward rewards program should be a terrific fit. Add in perks like an intro APR and the ability to redeem rewards automatically and this card should be a well-rounded starter option. Learn more: Why expert Nicole Dieker loves the Capital One Quicksilver Alternative: A few flat-rate rewards cards easily beat the Quicksilver due to its low rewards rate, including the Wells Fargo Active Cash (unlimited 2 percent cash rewards) and the Chase Freedom Unlimited (bonus rewards on dining and drugstore purchases as well as a flat 1.5 percent rewards rate on general purchases). 

• The card’s welcome bonus is one of the easiest to earn with a low spend requirement.
• You can earn rewards with minimal effort before graduating to a higher-maintenance card that offers better rewards rates.
• Even compared to other cash back cards available with no annual fee, its perks are limited.
• Some rival cards offer unlimited 2 percent cash back on all purchases while still charging no annual fee.
• Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase, every day
• Enjoy up to 6 months of complimentary Uber One membership statement credits through 11/14/2024
• No rotating categories or sign-ups needed to earn cash rewards; plus, cash back won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how much you can earn

Best rewards value

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

Earn 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠. Earn 5x total points on flights through Chase Travel℠. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining. Earn 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.

22.49% - 29.49% Variable

• 10x Earn 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠.
• 5x Earn 5x total points on flights through Chase Travel℠.
• 3x Earn 3x points on other travel and dining.
• 1x Earn 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.

What we love: Its travel and dining rewards are some of the most valuable we’ve found if you plan to take advantage of Chase’s card combinations, transfer partners, Ultimate Rewards redemption options. Fortunately, these rewards can go straight into your next trip rather than toward the annual fee, courtesy of first-class benefits like the $300 in annual travel credits, comprehensive travel insurance and airport perks. Learn more: Why expert Holly Johnson loves the Chase Sapphire Reserve Alternative: The Amex Platinum card provides even more annual credits and luxury privileges, including better airport lounge access. Meanwhile, the Chase Sapphire Preferred or Capital One Venture X may be more cost-effective and can help you earn rewards at a similar (or even higher) rate in their key categories.

• The general travel category alone is quite comprehensive, and the first $300 you spend on these purchases is covered by annual travel credits.
• It pairs incredibly well with other Chase rewards cards since you can pool points across multiple cards and boost your point value by 50 percent when you redeem for Chase Travel℠ bookings.
• This card charges a steep $550 annual fee, which may be hard to upkeep if you aren’t planning to use perks other than the rewards and annual travel credits (like the Priority Pass Select airport lounge membership).
• Its luxury travel perk roster isn’t as strong as that of some rival cards since it’s missing benefits like complimentary airline or hotel loyalty status.
• Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
• $300 Annual Travel Credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
• Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
• Get 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel through Chase Travel℠. For example, 60,000 points are worth $900 toward travel.
• 1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs
• Access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide after an easy, one-time enrollment in Priority Pass™ Select and up to $100 application fee credit every four years for Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck®

Best for groceries

Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express

• Earn a $250 statement credit after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card within the first 6 months.

6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%). 6% Cash Back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions. 3% Cash Back on transit including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more. 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations. 1% Cash Back on other purchases.

• $0 intro annual fee for the first year, then $95.

19.24% - 29.99% Variable

• 6% 6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%).
• 6% 6% Cash Back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions.
• 3% 3% Cash Back on transit including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more.
• 3% 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations
• 1% 1% Cash Back on other purchases

What we love: Maximizing the Blue Cash Preferred could make it perhaps the most rewarding card for groceries year-round — especially if you’re a commuter or part of a family or household that spends a lot at U.S. supermarkets and U.S. gas stations. What’s more, the annual credits and elevated rates for other everyday expenses like transit, select U.S. streaming services and U.S. gas station purchases make it a more well-rounded card. Learn more: Why expert Ted Rossman loves the Blue Cash Preferred Alternative: A flat-rate card like the Wells Fargo Active Cash Card could provide better value at superstores (like Target and Walmart) or wholesale clubs (like Costco or Sam’s Club). And if the annual fee is a deal-breaker, the Blue Cash Everyday® Card from American Express or the Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards credit card may work for smaller budgets.

• The card also offers unlimited 6 percent back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions — one of the best rates available in that category.
• Few premium cards offer intro APR periods, but this card provides an intro APR on purchases and balance transfers — handy for chipping away at the cost of large expenses over time.
• Your only redemption options are statement credits, gift cards or merchandise.
• Purchases at wholesale clubs, superstores (like Walmart), and specialty stores (bakeries, farmers markets, etc.) are excluded from the card’s U.S. supermarket bonus category and only earn 1 percent back.
• Buy Now, Pay Later: Enjoy $0 intro plan fees when you use Plan It® to split up large purchases into monthly installments. Pay $0 intro plan fees on plans created during the first 12 months from the date of account opening. Plans created after that will have a monthly plan fee up to 1.33% of each eligible purchase amount moved into a plan based on the plan duration, the APR that would otherwise apply to the purchase, and other factors.
• Low Intro APR: 0% on purchases and balance transfers for 12 months from the date of account opening. After that, your APR will be a variable APR of 19.24% - 29.99%.
• 6% Cash Back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%).
• 6% Cash Back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions.
• 3% Cash Back at U.S. gas stations.
• 3% Cash Back on transit (including taxis/rideshare, parking, tolls, trains, buses and more).
• 1% Cash Back on other purchases.
• Cash Back is received in the form of Reward Dollars that can be redeemed as a statement credit on Amazon.com at checkout.
• $84 Disney Bundle Credit: With your enrolled Blue Cash Preferred Card, spend $9.99 or more each month on an auto-renewing Disney Bundle subscription, to receive a monthly statement credit of $7. Valid only at Disney Plus.com, Hulu.com or Plus.espn.com in the U.S.

Best for gas

Citi Custom Cash® Card

Earn $200 in cash back after you spend $1500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. This bonus offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.

Earn 5% cash back on purchases in your top eligible spend category each billing cycle, up to the first $500 spent, 1% cash back thereafter. Special Travel Offer: Earn an additional 4% cash back on hotels, car rentals, and attractions booked on Citi Travel℠ portal through 6/30/2025. Earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.

19.24% - 29.24% (Variable)

• 5% Earn 5% cash back on purchases in your top eligible spend category each billing cycle, up to the first $500 spent, 1% cash back thereafter.
• 4% Special Travel Offer: Earn an additional 4% cash back on hotels, car rentals, and attractions booked on Citi Travel℠ portal through 6/30/2025.
• 1% Earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases.

What we love: This card automatically earns bonus rewards in your biggest spending category each billing cycle, with 10 eligible categories including gas. The rewards rate is one of the highest available year-round on gas purchases without requiring an annual fee, making it a remarkable partner card for frequent drivers aiming to maximize everyday rewards on fluctuating gas prices. Learn more: Is the Citi Custom Cash worth it? Alternative: For more choice and flexibility, you may prefer the Bank of America Customized Cash card or the U.S. Bank Cash+® Visa Signature® Card . These cards not only let you choose from a wide selection of bonus categories, but you also earn bonus rewards in more than one category. 

• Since you aren't locked into year-round or quarterly bonus categories, you can enjoy more flexibility in how you earn top rewards.
• For a no-annual fee card, it offers attractive additional perks if you receive it with World Elite Mastercard status, such as partner offers with Lyft and DoorDash.
• It may not work well as a standalone card since you’ll only earn 1 percent back on other everyday purchases outside your top eligible spending category.
• You’ll only earn 5 percent back on your first $500 in an eligible category each billing cycle (1 percent after that). This could hold you back if you spend heavily in one category or share the account among multiple households.
• Earn $200 cash back after you spend $1,500 on purchases in the first 6 months of account opening. This bonus offer will be fulfilled as 20,000 ThankYou® Points, which can be redeemed for $200 cash back.
• 0% Intro APR on balance transfers and purchases for 15 months. After that, the variable APR will be 19.24% - 29.24%, based on your creditworthiness.
• Earn 5% cash back on purchases in your top eligible spend category each billing cycle, up to the first $500 spent, 1% cash back thereafter. Also, earn unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases. Special Travel Offer: Earn an additional 4% cash back on hotels, car rentals, and attractions booked on Citi Travel℠ portal through 6/30/2025.
• No rotating bonus categories to sign up for – as your spending changes each billing cycle, your earn adjusts automatically when you spend in any of the eligible categories.
• No Annual Fee
• Citi will only issue one Citi Custom Cash® Card account per person.

Best for everyday travel

Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card

• Earn 20,000 bonus points when you spend $1,000 in purchases in the first 3 months - that's a $200 cash redemption value.

20,000 bonus points

Earn unlimited 3X points on restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services and phone plans. Earn 1X points on other purchases.

• 3X Earn unlimited 3X points on restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services and phone plans.

What we love: Thanks to its mix of practical everyday categories, the Autograph card makes for a solid low-maintenance rewards card. Commuters, families and road-trippers can squeeze a lot of value from its gas station, dining at a restaurant, transit and other bonus categories, making it easy to earn points even if you only travel occasionally. Learn more: Is the Wells Fargo Autograph worth it? Alternative: Despite its modest annual fee ($0 intro fee for the first year, then $95), the Blue Cash Preferred® Card from American Express could be more rewarding thanks to its best-in-class cash back rate on U.S. supermarket purchases. It also features many of the same bonus categories as the Autograph card.

• It's a great standalone card with everyday bonus categories (like restaurants and gas) coupled with harder-to-find extras like cell phone protection plans.
• The introductory purchase APR could be a big help if you need to chip away at the cost of a trip or other large purchases over time.
• Unlike some of the best travel cards, the Autograph card doesn’t let you transfer points to airline and hotel loyalty programs, so the value of your rewards may be limited.
• Frequent travelers hoping for perks like airport lounge access or credits for expedited security will likely get more value out of another card.
• Earn unlimited 3X points on the things that really add up - like restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services, and phone plans. Plus, earn 1X points on other purchases.
• 0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening on purchases. 20.24%, 25.24%, or 29.99% variable APR thereafter.
• Redeem your rewards points for travel, gift cards, or statement credits. Or shop at millions of online stores and redeem your rewards when you check out with PayPal.

Best for savers

Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card

• Receive 60,000 online bonus points - a $600 value - after you make at least $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.

60,000 points

Earn unlimited 2 points for every $1 spent on travel and dining purchases. Earn unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 spent on all other purchases.

21.24% - 29.24% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers

• 2X Earn unlimited 2 points for every $1 spent on travel and dining purchases.
• 1.5X Earn unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 spent on all other purchases.

What we love: With qualifying account balances, Bank of America's Preferred Rewards® program can boost your rewards rates by 25 percent to 75 percent, and infrequent flyers can use their points for cash back without losing value. Plus, the up to $100 in annual airline incidental statement credits can help make up for the annual fee if you enjoy in-flight commodities. Learn more: The Bank of America Premium Rewards Card benefits guide Alternatives: The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card may be a better alternative since you’ll get many of the same travel perks and protections for the same annual fee, but it has more valuable points.

• The annual fee is easy to offset with statement credits for airline incidentals.
• The current welcome offer could cover the cost of a quick trip, depending on the airline.
• You won’t get a break on interest charges if you carry a balance since it doesn’t have intro APR offers on purchases or balance transfers.
• To get the most out of this card, you need to have eligible savings or investment accounts with Bank of America or Merrill Lynch.
• Low $95 annual fee.
• Earn unlimited 2 points for every $1 spent on travel and dining purchases and unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 spent on all other purchases. No limit to the points you can earn and your points don't expire as long as your account remains open.
• If you're a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® member, you can earn 25%-75% more points on every purchase. That means you could earn 2.5-3.5 points on travel and dining purchases and 1.87 - 2.62 points on all other purchases, for every $1 you spend.
• Redeem for cash back as a statement credit, deposit into eligible Bank of America® accounts, credit to eligible Merrill® accounts, or gift cards or purchases at the Bank of America Travel Center.
• Get up to $100 in Airline Incidental Statement Credits annually and TSA PreCheck®/Global Entry Statement Credits of up to $100, every four years.
• Travel Insurance protections to assist with trip delays, cancellations and interruptions, baggage delays and lost luggage.
• No foreign transaction fees.
• This online only offer may not be available if you leave this page or if you visit a Bank of America financial center. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.

Best for paying rent

Bilt Mastercard®

Intro offer is not available for this Wells Fargo credit card.

3x points on dining. 2x points on travel. 1x points on other purchases. Earn up to 1x points on rent payments without the transaction fee, up to 100,000 points each calendar year. When you make at least 5 posted transactions in a statement period using your Bilt Mastercard, you'll earn points on rent and qualifying net purchases.

1X Points - 3X Points

• 3X Points 3x points on dining
• 2X Points 2x points on travel
• 1X Points 1x points on other purchases
• 1X Points Earn up to 1x points on rent payments without the transaction fee, up to 100,000 points each calendar year. When you make at least 5 posted transactions in a statement period using your Bilt Mastercard, you'll earn points on rent and qualifying net purchases.

What we love: There’s simply no card like it — it’s the only card that lets you earn rewards and avoid fees when you pay rent. Plus, the card offers a long list of high-value travel partners, giving renters and aspiring homeowners tremendous rewards redemption potential toward travel, rent payments or home down payments. Alternative: A no-annual-fee cash back card with everyday categories and additional redemption options, like the Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card, could be better for everyday savings. You may also earn more rewards on your utilities and other household expenses with a flat-rate card like the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card.

• Bilt points currently rank as some the most valuable rewards on the market based on Bankrate’s latest points and miles valuations .
• It carries a solid set of perks for a no-annual-fee card, including travel and purchase protections and ongoing credits for Lyft.
• If you are looking to build credit, this is one of the few cards that lets you earn rewards and build credit too.
• Redemption options are limited, and you can’t opt for regular cash back. Your main options are redeeming to cover rent, a home down payment or travel.
• You have to make at least five transactions with the card before rewards rates apply.
• $0 Annual Fee.
• Earn up to 1x points on rent payments without the transaction fee, up to 100,000 points each calendar year.
• 2x points on travel.
• 3x points on dining.
• 1x points on other purchases.
• Earn points when you make 5 transactions that post each statement period.
• When renting at a Bilt Alliance property, you can choose to have your rent payments automatically reported by Bilt to the three major credit bureaus each month; Experian™, TransUnion™, and Equifax™.

Best for small-business owners

American Express® Business Gold Card

Welcome Offer: Earn 70,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $10,000 on eligible purchases with the Business Gold Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.*

Earn 70,000 points

Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points on the 2 categories where your business spends the most each billing cycle from 6 eligible categories. While your top 2 categories may change, you will earn 4X points on the first $150,000 in combined purchases from these categories each calendar year (then 1X thereafter). Only the top 2 categories each billing cycle will count towards the $150,000 cap. Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com using your Business Gold Card. 1X is earned for other purchases. **.

19.49% - 28.49% Variable

• 4X Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points on the 2 categories where your business spends the most each billing cycle from 6 eligible categories. While your top 2 categories may change, you will earn 4X points on the first $150,000 in combined purchases from these categories each calendar year (then 1X thereafter). Only the top 2 categories each billing cycle will count towards the $150,000 cap.
• 3X Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com using your Business Gold Card.
• 1X 1X is earned for other purchases. **

What we love: It carries a terrific mix of bonus categories tailored to small-business owners, including everything from U.S. gas stations to computer software, so it could be a great standalone option if you’re focused on earning travel rewards more than enjoying lounge access and other luxury perks. Learn more: Why expert Holly Johnson loves the Amex Business Gold card Alternative: The Capital One Venture X Business Rewards Credit Card offers much better travel perks, including an annual travel credit and anniversary bonus points that make it more than worth it. Its flat rewards rate means it’s also a better fit if you’re looking to keep things simple. 

• Earns bonus rewards in several key small-business spending categories, making it a versatile option as both a standalone and supplementary rewards card.
• Offers a flexible spending limit via its Pay Over Time feature, which could help you free up cash flow or finance large business purchases.
• You only earn 4X points on the first $150,000 you spend per year across two eligible spending categories, so you may leave rewards on the table if you have high expenses.
• It’s missing perks like lounge access and airline or hotel elite status, which you can find on other business travel cards at a similar price level.
• Welcome Offer: Earn 70,000 Membership Rewards® points after you spend $10,000 on eligible purchases with the Business Gold Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.*
• Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points on the 2 categories where your business spends the most each billing cycle from 6 eligible categories. While your top 2 categories may change, you will earn 4X points on the first $150,000 in combined purchases from these categories each calendar year (then 1X thereafter). Only the top 2 categories each billing cycle will count towards the $150,000 cap.
• Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights and prepaid hotels booked on amextravel.com using your Business Gold Card.
• Earn up to $20 in statement credits monthly after you use the Business Gold Card for eligible U.S. purchases at FedEx, Grubhub, and Office Supply Stores. This can be an annual savings of up to $240. Enrollment required.
• Get up to a $12.95** statement credit back each month after you pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership (subject to auto-renewal) with your Business Gold Card. **Up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes on one membership fee.
• Your Card – Your Choice. Choose from Gold or Rose Gold.
• *Terms Apply

Best for online shopping

• Get a $100 Amazon Gift Card instantly upon approval exclusively for Prime members

Get a $100 Amazon Gift Card

Earn unlimited 5% back at Amazon.com, Amazon Fresh, Whole Foods Market, and on Chase Travel purchases with an eligible Prime membership. Earn unlimited 2% back at gas stations, restaurants, and on local transit and commuting (including rideshare). Earn unlimited 1% back on all other purchases.

• 5% Earn unlimited 5% back at Amazon.com, Amazon Fresh, Whole Foods Market, and on Chase Travel purchases with an eligible Prime membership
• 2% Earn unlimited 2% back at gas stations, restaurants, and on local transit and commuting (including rideshare)
• 1% Earn unlimited 1% back on all other purchases

What we love: Few cards offer such a high rewards rate on Amazon purchases, and perhaps no other card offers this year-round online shopping rate with no spending cap. The card is also surprisingly versatile for Amazon Prime members offline, raking in rewards on Chase Travel bookings and local commuting, as well as purchases at Whole Foods Market, restaurants and gas stations. Learn more: What card expert Holly Johnson loves about the Prime Visa Alternative: If you want to earn rewards on groceries and online shopping without being stuck buying from Amazon.com or Whole Foods, consider the Blue Cash Everyday card. It offers a solid rewards rate on both U.S. online retail purchases and at U.S. supermarkets, making it a more flexible but still lucrative option. 

• The sign-up bonus is lower than other no-annual-fee rewards card bonuses, but you’ll earn it instantly on approval, with no spending requirement to worry about.
• Unlocks exclusive pay-over-time financing on eligible Amazon purchases, giving you a chance to chip away at large expenses without stressing over interest charges (terms apply).
• For a no-annual-fee general rewards card, Prime Visa offers significant travel benefits like no foreign transaction fees, lost luggage reimbursement and travel accident insurance.
• It doesn’t carry a traditional intro APR, so you can’t finance non-Amazon purchases with a 0 percent APR.
• An Amazon Prime membership runs $139 per year, so the bonus rates might be only worth it if you already are or plan to become a member.
• Earn unlimited 5% back at Amazon.com, Amazon Fresh, and Whole Foods Market with an eligible Prime membership
• Earn unlimited 5% back on Chase Travel purchases with an eligible Prime membership
• Earn unlimited 2% back at gas stations, restaurants, and on local transit and commuting (including rideshare)
• Earn unlimited 1% back on all other purchases
• No annual credit card fee
• No more waiting. Redeem daily rewards at Amazon.com as soon as the next day

Compare Bankrate’s top rewards credit cards

The information about the My GM Rewards® Mastercard® has been collected independently by Bankrate.com. The card details have not been reviewed or approved by the card issuer.

* Bankrate’s points and miles valuations are based on an average of the issuer’s five highest-value transfer partners (if available).

A rewards credit card earns points, miles or cash back on eligible purchases. You can earn rewards at a flat rate or at a higher rate in specific bonus categories depending on the card.

The issuer credits your account with your earnings, which you can redeem for statement credits, travel, gift cards or merchandise.

Types of rewards credit cards

Some of the most common types of rewards credit cards include cash back cards , travel rewards cards and business rewards cards. 

Cash back credit cards

Cash back cards earn back a percentage of your purchases, usually in the form of a statement credit or direct deposit to a linked checking or savings account. Depending on the card, you may earn a percentage back on all purchases ( flat-rate rewards ), in specific bonus categories ( tiered category rewards ), or in categories that change quarterly or monthly ( rotating category rewards ).

Learn more: How to choose a cash back credit card .

I have always been a big fan of cash back credit cards. The Blue Cash Preferred Card from American Express is one of my favorites since my family of four spends a lot on groceries. My only complaint is that the rate drops to 1 percent back after $6,000 in annual spending. I also use the Wells Fargo Active Cash Card a lot for its unlimited 2 percent cash rewards on purchases my other cards only earn 1 percent back on. — Ted Rossman Senior Industry Analyst, Credit cards

Travel rewards credit cards

There are two main types of travel rewards credit cards : co-branded and general-purpose. 

• Co-branded travel cards offer unique perks and boosted rewards on purchases with specific airlines or hotel brands, typically earning points or miles unique to that brand. This makes them less flexible than general travel cards. 
• General-purpose travel cards earn rewards that aren’t tied to a single airline or hotel brand. You can often earn more valuable rewards on a wider variety of everyday and travel purchases with these cards. Some cards even let you transfer points or miles to a partner loyalty program.

Business rewards credit cards

Business rewards cards earn cash back, points or miles on common business expenses, like office supplies, advertising services or travel. These cards sometimes carry perks like free employee cards, annual software or service credits, high spending limits and big sign-up bonuses.

Learn more: How to choose a business credit card

From our experts

Based on the most recent J.D. Power U.S. Credit Card Satisfaction Study , our expert Ted Rossman breaks down the data on the rewards and perks cardholders value, how issuers rank and how you should factor these trends into your credit card decision.

Weighing rewards value

A crucial part of choosing the right rewards card is understanding the value of a card’s earned rewards. Here’s a quick rundown of how reward rates and redemption values work.

• Understanding rewards rates
• Understanding redemption values
• Credit card rewards are usually earned as cash back, points or miles. This means you’ll get a certain number of points/miles or a certain percentage of your purchase back per dollar spent. For example: 1 percent cash back on $100 = $1 cash back. And 1X points or miles on $100 = 100 points or miles back.
• A card’s reward rate depends on how it earns them. Flat-rate cards typically earn 1.5 percent to 2 percent rewards. Tiered category cards earn anywhere from 2 percent to 6 percent rewards. Rotating category cards often earn 5 percent rewards on categories that change each quarter.
• Some reward cards have spending caps, meaning the reward rate drops down to 1 percent rewards after you spend a certain amount in a select category within a timeframe. This is often up to $1,500 per quarter or up to $6,000 per year.
• Reward redemption options differ by card, but often include cash back, travel bookings, gift cards and merchandise through the issuer portal. 
• Travel redemptions are often the most valuable option, but require the most work. You can redeem points or miles through the issuer travel portal for airfare, hotel stays, travel experiences or rental cars. Some issuers allow you to transfer your points or miles to travel partners, which can boost your reward value even further (or reduce the value if you’re not careful).
• Cash back redemption values are straightforward and usually worth 1 cent back per dollar spent. On the other hand, keep in mind that points or miles redeemed for cash back are usually worth less than 1 cent.
• To find out if a rewards card is worth it for you, you’ll need to do some quick math. The easiest way to calculate the value of your rewards points is to divide the cash value of what you’re redeeming your points for by the number of points required to redeem it. (Example: $700 plane ticket / 70,000 points needed = 1 cent point value) 

To make it easier to gauge the right rewards card for the job, we’ve already crunched the numbers for you. Our up-to-date list of point and mile values gives you a sense of how much the most popular airline and hotel rewards are worth on average.

Looking for a particular type of rewards credit card?

Beginner’s guide to credit card points, pros and cons of rewards credit cards.

A rewards card can be a great way to save on purchases but there are some downsides if you’re not careful. If you're wondering whether rewards credit cards are worth it , here are a few pros and cons to keep in mind:

Rewards: You can save money by earning rewards on purchases.

Sign-up bonuses/intro APRs: You can take advantage of a generous sign-up bonus or intro APRs kickstart your rewards or help pay down purchases or a previous balance.

Perks: Many cards feature handy benefits, like travel savings and purchase protections.

Rewards caps: Some cards limit the earnable rewards, which could reduce the card’s value if your spending far exceeds the cap.

High APRs: Cards’ high APRs can cancel out any rewards you may earn.

Annual fees: Unless you maximize your reward earnings or card perks, it may be hard to outweigh the cost of some cards’ annual fees.

Once you have your card in hand, you can put it to work by maximizing its rewards . Here’s some advice from the Bankrate experts on how to put your rewards card to best use. 

Maximizing your card value

Here are some quick tips to help you squeeze out as much value as possible from your rewards card. 

Optimize your spending and redemption

Concentrate your spending on categories that earn higher rewards and track your spending to see if you’re missing out on any reward opportunities. Then, always redeem your rewards for the option that offers maximum value.

You may need to shift your credit card strategy depending on lifestyle changes. For instance, credit card rewards can help minimize inflation costs on groceries, dining and other major expenses. Or if you’re back at the office, a card that rewards gas purchases, travel or transit may fit your budget better.

Earn your sign-up bonus

Make a plan to meet the spending requirement without overspending and redeem your bonus through the optimal redemption method.

Leverage your extra benefits

Make sure you can offset your annual fee via your typical rewards spending. Better yet, do so with your card’s annual credits and perks without relying on your rewards. If you can barely cover the fee or fall short, you may want to downgrade to a no-annual-fee card . Big spenders in the same position may want to upgrade to a premium card for more valuable perks.

Double up on cards to earn more

You can rake in more rewards by pairing a card that rewards your highest spending category with a supporting flat-rate card. This cornerstone strategy ensures you earn rewards on as many purchases as possible, including those that fall outside of typical categories.

Learn more: Best credit card combinations to maximize rewards

Understand merchant category codes (MCCs)

These four-digit codes classify where purchases fall into your card’s bonus categories. Knowing your card network’s MCCs allows you to see whether you need to change your shopping habits, which card is better for which expense and how you may be able to snag unexpected rewards.

Learn more: How to earn more cash back with merchant category codes

Don’t carry a balance

Carrying a balance leads to interest charges, which will eat through any rewards you’ve earned. Set up autopay and pay that month’s statement balance in full to avoid interest.

Ask the experts: What's your go-to method for maximizing credit card rewards?

Thomas Nitzsche

Stephanie Zito

Erica Sandberg

Financial Educator, Debt and Credit

As someone who travels a lot, I focus on travel rewards, mostly hotel accommodations, with no hotel brand affinity. I use an online discount travel site’s branded card, using promo codes at the point of sale. I earn the most points on travel booked through the site, and I also get a bonus on points I’ve redeemed toward past travel purchases. The points can also be used to purchase trips on the site, and points are earned on those purchases as well. I also use the Upromise.com browser extension that lets you know when you can earn an additional 5 percent cash back shopping online that goes automatically into a 529 college savings account.

Contributor, Personal Finance

Most people focus their credit card strategy on how to earn the most points possible and then later think about what they might be able to redeem them for. I think this is backwards. I like to start by knowing what reward I’m working toward, then reverse engineer my earning strategy. I’m not just earning points — I’m earning the right points, and I know I’m going to be able to put them into use! This is much more motivating.

Contributor, Credit Cards

I spend naturally, but use my credit cards for almost every expense. I don't look at how many rewards I have earned monthly because I like being surprised by how many I have to redeem.

Tips for choosing the best rewards card for you

Navigating all the rewards card options available can be difficult. Here are some tips and insights from Bankrate writer Garrett Yarbrough about his own reward card journey that can help you decide which rewards card would fit you best .

• Figure out where you spend the most each month. Once you know your major monthly categories, you match your spending with a fitting rewards card. “My biggest expenses tend to be everyday purchases like groceries, gas and dining. I love to cook, too, so I’d probably lean on a grocery rewards card more than one with a restaurant category,” explains Yarbrough. “On paper, my spending habits meant a card with a high rewards rate at grocery stores would be helpful. But in practice, I’d likely rack up more rewards with a flat-rate card.” 
• Look at the card's fees. APR and foreign transaction fees are worth keeping an eye on, but the annual fee is the most important. You'll need to decide whether the card’s benefits and potential rewards can help offset the yearly cost. This was less an issue for Garrett: “APRs weren’t a huge concern since I already had a low-interest card from my credit union and I avoid carrying a balance, so I focused on rewards.”
• Consider intro APR offers or sign-up bonuses. Many rewards cards offer sign-up bonus rewards and a zero-percent introductory APR on balance transfers and/or new purchases. Short-term value isn’t everything, but these offers can give a card an edge if you prioritize earning rewards, paying off debt or the middle-ground: a shorter intro APR with rewards
• Factor in perks that are valuable to you. Perks that come with a card can play a key role in determining its overall value, especially if the perks can help offset the annual fee. “Knowing I wanted a future-proof, flat-rate rewards card with diverse redemption options and plenty of pairing opportunities helped me quickly narrow my search to the Chase Freedom Unlimited®,” Yarbrough notes.
• Determine how you’d like to redeem your rewards. Cash back cards are generally easiest if you want to put your rewards back into your everyday spending. If you don’t mind strategizing, you could earn more valuable points with a travel rewards card. Garrett made sure to keep this option open when choosing the Freedom Unlimited: “I can eventually boost the value of the Freedom Unlimited card’s rewards by adding the Chase Sapphire Preferred to my wallet and redeeming points for travel. Until then, the Freedom Unlimited gives me a stellar foundation on which to build my rewards strategy.”

Staff Picks: Our experts' favorite rewards programs

Ana Staples

Garrett Yarbrough

Ryan Flanigan

Lead Writer, Credit Cards

“I have the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card, which earns incredibly flexible travel rewards. I'm not big on rewards transfers, so I appreciate that Capital One miles hold consistent value whether I book travel through the issuer's portal or use miles to cover recent travel purchases. Plus, I convert my Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card’s cash back into miles to earn free travel faster. It's really simple and convenient!"

Writer, Credit Cards

“I base my cards strategy around earning flexible rewards on everyday spending while minimizing the number of cards I need to use. In all my years of reviewing credit cards, I’ve found the Chase Ultimate Rewards program still strikes the best balance between versatility and value. It’s hard to beat a program that offers top-shelf rewards value through transfer partners, a full 1-cent-per-point cash back redemption value and a unique rewards value boost toward issuer-booked travel.”

“I like to maximize my rewards on every purchase, no matter how large or small. I get the best value from Chase Ultimate Rewards points, particularly when transferring to World of Hyatt or Southwest Airlines rewards. Whether it's spending towards an annual bonus or using the best bonus multiplier for almost any category, my arsenal of Chase cards bring the largest possible return for the best possible value. Combining my points boosts the value earned by each card, making my Chase cards a well-oiled rewards machine that facilitates great travel experiences for my family.”

What people are saying about rewards credit cards

Bankrate regularly dips into social media to see what big rewards card topics are getting people talking. So what’s currently on consumers' minds? 

One of the more popular, newer discussions is over the Credit Card Competition Act (CCCA), a proposed legislation that could potentially damage credit card rewards programs. The fear: if card issuers ultimately make less income on interchange fees, they’ll reduce consumer card reward opportunities to make up the difference. One Reddit user doesn’t have high hopes:

“They did push exactly this measure through a decade ago for debit cards; now the same guy is pushing the same law for credit cards. Optimistic to bet against him, I fear.”* — Reddit user

User comments from financial Youtuber ClearValue Tax’s videos on the topic hold a similar sentiment:

“Rewards is a HUGE reason I use credit cards other than to build credit. If this happens I would go down to having 1 credit card instead of managing 6 for maximum rewards.”* — ClearValue Tax video comment

A piece of legislation like the Credit Card Competition Act could cripple credit card rewards as we know them. The Capital One and Discover merger could potentially impact the CCCA as it currently stands, but we’ll know more about whether the act may change or pass later this year. 

Other than that, it’s business as usual over on other sites like the credit cards subreddit, Flyertalk and Tiktok. Users are mainly talking about the typical point-chasing topics like best rewards program and card combinations. Some things never change — if we’re lucky.  

*The quotes and citations included on this page have been verified by our editorial team and are accurate as of the posting date. Outlinked content may contain views and opinions that do not reflect the views and opinions of Bankrate.

When evaluating the best rewards cards, we consider a mix of factors, including how cards score in our proprietary card rating system and whether cards offer features that fit the priorities of a diverse group of cardholders, from earning rewards in popular categories to scoring a large sign-up bonus or high-value perks. Whenever possible, we also feature cards that are available at various credit levels and price points. 

We analyzed over 150 of the most popular cards and scored each based on its rewards rate, estimated annual earnings, welcome bonus value, APR, fees, perks and more to determine whether it belonged in this month’s roundup of the best rewards cards.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the key factors in our rewards card scoring methodology and details we considered when putting together our list of the best rewards cards.  

• Flexibility 15%
• Customer experience 5%

Great rewards value

The primary criteria for a rewards-earning card’s rating is its rewards value. This includes the card’s average rewards rate, estimated annual rewards earnings, sign-up bonus value and reward redemption value.

To estimate a card’s average annual rewards earnings, we first calculate its average rewards rate based on how much it earns in different bonus categories and how closely its categories align with the average person’s spending habits. 

The most recent BLS data estimates average total spending in 2022 was $72,967 per consumer. We then narrow our focus to which purchases are likely to be put on a credit card and earn rewards, subtracting expenditures like housing, vehicle purchases and education. This gives us a total “chargeable” annual spend of around $22,500.  

Some of the major spending categories that contribute towards the annual spend include:

• Groceries: $5,700
• Dining out: $3,600
• Entertainment: $2,400
• Gas: $3,100
• Apparel and services: $1,900

Using this data, we assign a weighting to each of a card’s bonus categories. For example, a card’s grocery rewards rate receives a 22 percent weighting based on how much of the average person’s budget is spent on groceries. We also estimate the redemption value of points or miles from various issuer, airline and hotel rewards programs.

This weighting and rewards valuation allows us to estimate a card’s average annual rewards earnings — how many points or miles you’d earn with a given card if your spending was about average and you used the card for all of your purchases — as well as what those points are worth. We also use point valuations to determine a card’s sign-up bonus value

With these calculations complete, we assign each card a score based on how its average rewards earnings, sign-up bonus value, rewards rate and redemption value stack up against other rewards cards.

The better these values, the higher its score will be, making it more worthy of inclusion in our list and increasing its potential ranking.

Here’s a deeper look at the factors considered as part of a rewards card’s “Value” rating:

• Ongoing rewards value 30%
• Sign-up bonus value 25%
• Annual fee & average APR 20%
• Rewards rate 15%
• Annual bonus value 10%

Reasonable rates and fees

We also score cards based on how much it costs to keep them in your wallet or carry a balance. 

To start, each card is scored based on whether it offers an intro APR and how its ongoing APR compares to the rates available on other rewards cards. However, the latter rating only has a slight influence on the card’s score and whether the card is included in our list, since rewards card users generally try to avoid carrying a balance.

More important to both a card’s score and its inclusion in our list is how its annual fee influences its overall value. We consider a card’s annual fee in two ways — how it ranks relative to the fees you’ll find on other cards in the category and how it impacts a card’s overall rewards value. 

Cards with an annual fee will always be at a slight disadvantage in our scoring system since annual fees inherently cut into your rewards value. However, if a card offers terrific value via its ongoing rewards and perks, it can earn a high score and a spot in our list even if it carries a high annual fee. After all, the highest rewards rates and most valuable perks are often found on cards with annual fees. 

With this in mind, we rate a card based primarily on how its ongoing rewards value and ongoing perk value (such as annual credits or bonuses) stack up against those of other cards in the category when you subtract annual fees.

That said, we strive to include as many no-annual-fee options in our list as possible since many people would rather not worry about offsetting fees, even if a card carries impressive rewards and perks.

Redemption flexibility

Rewards cards may make it easy to earn a lot of points, miles or cash back, but how easy is it to use those rewards? After all, if it takes a ton of effort to redeem rewards or you can only redeem rewards in a couple of ways, a card may be more trouble than it’s worth. 

As such, we rate each card’s flexibility based on the restrictions it imposes on earning and redeeming rewards. We factor this rating into a card’s overall score and consider it when deciding on a card’s inclusion in our list. 

Flexibility factors include whether a card only allows you to earn a high rewards rate on only a small amount of spending or requires you to meet a certain earning threshold before you can redeem rewards. We also examine whether your points are worth less when you opt for some redemption options over others and whether a card gives you the flexibility to transfer rewards to travel partners.

Valuable perks

We also score each card’s set of features – its perks and benefits — against five tiers of features to provide a rating. 

We break down these tiers as follows:

• Tier 1 includes fewer features than even standard credit cards (for example, an ultra-streamlined card that offers basic utility and next to nothing in the way of ancillary benefits). 
• Tier 2 includes the benefits you’d expect on standard Visa or Mastercard credit cards, such as free access to your credit score, car rental insurance and $0 liability for fraudulent charges. 
• Tier 3 includes “prime card” or better-than-average card features like cellphone insurance, lost luggage insurance, concierge services and purchase protection. 
• Tier 4 includes luxury features such as airport lounge access, elite status with an airline or hotel and credits for expedited security screening membership programs. 
• Tier 5 includes the sort of exemplary benefits you’ll find on top-tier luxury cards, such as high-value travel credits, cardholder memberships and other unique and valuable perks.

In evaluating the best cards, we tend to favor cards that offer at least Tier 3 benefits, unless they include other unique features that could make up for less-impressive perks.

Have more questions for our credit card editors? Feel free to send us an email , find us on Facebook , or Tweet us @Bankrate .

For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the above benefits are provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply.

Frequently asked questions about rewards credit cards

Do credit card rewards expire.

Typically, credit card rewards don’t expire for the life of your account. That means your rewards won’t expire as long as you keep your account open and in good standing.

However, make sure to read your rewards program’s terms and conditions carefully since this isn’t guaranteed for all cards. 

Are credit card rewards taxable?

Generally, rewards are not considered taxable since the IRS considers the rewards to be a form of rebate on the purchase. Though uncommon, rewards may be taxable if they’re received under circumstances like bonus offers without a spending requirement. Make sure to look at the credit card’s terms to see the conditions of how you can receive and redeem bonus rewards.

What credit score do I need for a rewards card?

You typically need good to excellent credit (FICO score 670 and higher) to qualify for a competitive rewards card. Premium travel cards might require an excellent credit score (FICO score of 800 and above). You can also find rewards cards for people with fair credit , but the rewards and perks might be limited.

Learn more about rewards credit cards

How to score a rewards card without good credit

Should I get a travel credit card that earns points, miles or both

The pros and cons of travel credit cards

Underrated ways to earn credit card rewards

Traveler’s guide to the best frequent flyer programs

* See the online application for details about terms and conditions for these offers. Every reasonable effort has been made to maintain accurate information. However all credit card information is presented without warranty. After you click on the offer you desire you will be directed to the credit card issuer's web site where you can review the terms and conditions for your selected offer.

Editorial Disclosure: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed or approved by any advertiser. The information, including card rates and fees, is accurate as of the publish date. All products or services are presented without warranty. Check the bank’s website for the most current information.

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Myrtle Beach, SC mom accused of ‘allowing’ kids to live in dirty shed without plumbing

A 40-year-old mother has been arrested after allegedly allowing her children to live in a shed that is in “deplorable condition,” a Myrtle Beach Police arrest warrant said.

Kelly Poe, of Myrtle Beach, was arrested June 17 on two counts of unlawful conduct toward a child, possession of meth, possession of a controlled substance and two counts of card theft. She is being held at J. Reuben Long Detention Center with a bond of $65,000.

Police found Poe’s two children, ages 6 and 17, living in a dirty shed that was small, not secured, lacked climate control and had no plumbing, the arrest warrants said. The minors were “unwashed” and had no extra clothing.

When arrested, Poe was in possession of meth, seizure medicine gabapentin and had two other warrants for attempting to use an unauthorized debit card at Food Lion and Coastal Pantry Liquor Store, arrest warrants stated.

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What You Should Know Before Paying For A Rental Car

W hen it comes to paying for rental cars, it goes without saying that having a credit card is a great privilege and advantage. Credit cards are the go-to way to pay, not only because of the flexibility in paying credit cards back, but because rental car companies will typically charge a temporary additional fee (better known as a "hold") upon renting. There are also often additional fees, including car insurance, rental protection, damage charges, processing fees, upgrade charges, and that pesky little detail of ensuring you return your car within the 24-hour window to avoid getting charged an extra day.

For those who don't have access to a credit card, you might feel like you're hindered when it comes to your payment approach for rental cars. Because of this, we did some investigating. Can debit cards be used for rental cars? Can cash  be used for rental cars? What about paying for a rental car with points accumulated from a travel credit card? What hidden fees should be looked out for to best prepare for the actual cost of the rental car? Let's dig in.

Credit, Debit, Or Cash?

The go-to way to pay for a rental car is a credit card. When customers choose to pay with a credit card, they avoid having their overall funds hindered for the duration of their travels, since credit cards offer flexible payment plans. Perks to using a credit card may also include getting travel points if you have a travel-friendly credit card such as the Chase Sapphire Reserve or the American Express Gold Platinum.

If a credit card isn't an option for you, however, using a debit card is indeed possible. Several car rental agencies will accept debit cards under different circumstances. Avis is the friendliest debit card option, and only requires credit cards on certain premium model vehicles. Budget accepts debit cards when you  return  your rental car, but only particular locations will accept one at time of pick up. Dollar accepts debit cards in advance. Enterprise accepts debit cards from any of their airport locations, with the additional requirement of proof of a return flight.

Paying a rental car with cash can be a little bit trickier. Budget will accept cash as payment upon returning the vehicle and Dollar accepts cash if you pre-qualify for a Cash Deposit Identification Card (the process takes about 30 days, requires a credit check, and costs $30). Avis will sometimes accept prepaid gift cards upon returning a vehicle.

Travel Points And Hidden Fees

It can be frustrating to see your rental car being advertised as a fixed amount per day, only to be hit with additional fees. This is quite common in the world of rental cars, so to best prepare yourself, there are unexpected fees you should be looking out for.

For starters, do you plan to buy rental car insurance? While having personal auto insurance is not a requirement for most rental cars, it is certainly helpful to add it on to cover potential expenses and liability should you be in a car accident. Rental car insurance can be purchased directly from the rental car agency and prices vary. This is where having a travel credit card comes in handy; if you use the Chase Sapphire Reserve card to book, for example, rental car insurance is covered with up to $75,000 in damages . Better yet, if you have enough points racked up, some cards will let you book a rental car using points you've accumulated from everyday purchases.

Another common additional cost is gas. Is it better to let the rental agency take care of gas (as in, return it without the tank being full ), or to fill up before returning? The answer, financially speaking, is typically the latter, but always follow the fuel policy that best suits you. Something else to keep in mind is the time in which you pick up and return the car. Stay within 24-hour windows to avoid extra daily charges.

Read this next: Your Guide To Renting A Car For The First Time

The 5 credit cards I had in my wallet after graduating college

Editor's Note

A question I was often asked as a recent college grad was why I had multiple credit cards. The answer was that I had stumbled across the world of points and miles and discovered The Points Guy in my efforts to learn more about travel credit cards during college. I was amazed by all the opportunities for (almost) free travel I could unlock just by owning the right cards.

Between classes, work and other commitments, I struggled to find the time (and money) to travel as a college student. However, after studying abroad in Paris, I wanted to continue traveling without breaking the bank — which led me to build my credit card portfolio at a young age.

If you've just recently graduated, this is the perfect time to get your bearings with credit cards and personal finance. There's a learning curve for everyone, so I'll take you through my journey of the first five credit cards I opened. With several years of experience now, I've been able to take some awesome trips that I completely paid for with points and miles.

Related: Maximizing points and miles on back-to-school shopping

My First card and first mistake

In 2016, I entered my first year in college. I opened my first credit card, the Wells Fargo Cash Back College℠ Card (no longer open to new applicants), which featured a $0 annual fee and 1% back on all my purchases.

This was the easiest card for me to open, as I had no credit history and had already been banking with Wells Fargo for years. I used my first credit card sparingly, only putting my phone bill, gas and other school-related expenses on it.

Then, during the summer of 2017, I studied abroad in Paris. This was the first time I had flown internationally by myself and also my first time in Europe. In those glorious six weeks, I learned that a 50-cent baguette with lots of butter makes for a delicious lunch (while keeping my taste buds and my wallet happy) and that comté cheese is the best cheese in the world.

The information for the Wells Fargo Cash Back College card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

While eating to my heart's content, I also made one of the biggest mistakes I could ever make. I didn't know what foreign transaction fees were, so I paid a hefty amount using a debit card and my Wells Fargo credit card. The fees ranged from 1-3% on every purchase I made, so I wasted quite a lot of money that summer.

As a credit card newbie, this was quite the rookie mistake. But all things considered, no study abroad experience is complete without a couple of mishaps along the way.

Related: Every student studying abroad needs one of these credit cards

Getting started with my first airline rewards card

Fueled by my desire to keep traveling and to find a card with no foreign transaction fees (see rates and fees ), I applied for the Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card in 2018. Currently, the Delta Gold Amex has a $0 introductory annual fee for the first year, then $150 each year after (see rates and fees ), but when I first applied the card had a $0 introductory annual fee, then $99 a year — and offered great perks: I was drawn to the introductory offer, which at the time was 60,000 miles.

However, I had to consider paying an annual fee for the first time. I justified paying a $99 annual fee (at the time) since I saved more than $300 on checked baggage fees alone in the first year of account opening. In college, I used my SkyMiles for a fall break trip to Seattle, a winter break trip to South Korea and a spring break trip to Puerto Rico.

The Delta Gold Amex currently offers a limited-time welcome offer of 65,000 bonus miles after you spend $3,000 in your first six months of account opening (offer ends July 17), worth $748 according to TPG's June 2024 valuations . Other benefits, such as the ability to check a bag for free and access priority boarding on Delta flights, were enticing, too.

Related: Valuable travel discounts and deals for college students and young adults

Opening my second airline rewards card

While the Delta Gold card served me well, I ran into a couple of frustrations using American Express while traveling internationally. While in Amsterdam, my Amex was denied at many restaurants and bars, so I knew I needed a more universally accepted credit card.

In June 2019, I applied for my third credit card, the JetBlue Plus Card, when I interned at JetBlue Airways . The $99 annual fee was waived for life for employees, even for those of us working at the airline short term. With an introductory bonus of 30,000 TrueBlue points for employees at the time, adding this card to my portfolio was a no-brainer. With this card, I could take advantage of free checked bags, 50% off inflight food and cocktails and more.

While interning for JetBlue, I had full access to standby travel. I took a trip every weekend that summer — I was jet-setting to Los Angeles, St. Martin, Cancun, Albuquerque, New Mexico and so many other amazing destinations. While I didn't rack up points on these standby trips, I used my new JetBlue Plus Card on all other living and travel expenses to lock in the bonus points.

Post-internship, I was able to redeem those TrueBlue points for trips to Boston, New York and Miami throughout my senior year of college.

The information for the JetBlue Plus Card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Related: How to choose an airline credit card

Switching gears

In college, I decided to join the Amazon Prime Student program. Over the years, I ordered everything from textbooks to dorm essentials. So, in late 2019, I added another card to my wallet: Chase's Prime Visa .

Because I frequently ordered from Amazon and shopped at Whole Foods, I figured I should somehow maximize these purchases. After graduating, I used Amazon and this card frequently enough to justify keeping it for the long term. This card offers 5% cash back on Amazon.com and Whole Foods, 2% back at restaurants, gas stations and local transit and 1% on all other purchases.

Finally, you'll receive decent traveler benefits, such as no foreign transaction fees, travel and emergency assistance, lost luggage reimbursement and more. While I rarely used this card for purposes other than Amazon and Whole Foods, I didn't see the harm in keeping it beyond college since it carries no annual fee .

Related: The best credit cards for Amazon purchases

Bigger and better travel rewards cards

In my senior year of college, I graduated to my first travel card that wasn't tied to an airline: The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card . While the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card and the Capital One Venture Rewards are often compared, I applied for the Capital One Venture Rewards because of its simple earning structure.

Both have annual fees of $95 (see Venture Rewards rates and fees ), but back when I applied, the Capital One annual fee was waived for the first year. While this is no longer the case, I've found tons of value in the card that has helped me justify paying the annual fee since then.

One of the major perks that stood out to me was up to $100 credit for a Global Entry or TSA PreCheck enrollment fee . This has helped me expedite airport security when flying and bypass long lines when returning from international trips.

I also love that it's easy to rack up miles, as you get 2 miles per dollar on every purchase. The ability to transfer my miles to 15-plus transfer partners makes it a valuable traveler's card.

Related: Chase Sapphire Preferred vs. Capital One Venture Rewards

Bottom line

If you've just graduated, I highly encourage you to get a headstart on your first credit card . If you're looking to travel for (almost) free, it's worth opening a beginner's card to rack up great rewards. While I've made some mistakes along the way, it's crucial to know the fundamental principles of credit card usage and not spend more than what you can pay back in full each month.

To learn more, check out our full reviews of the Delta SkyMiles Gold , JetBlue Plus , Prime Visa and Capital One Venture Rewards .

Related: The beginner's guide to points, miles and credit cards

Apply here: Delta SkyMiles Gold

Apply here: Prime Visa

Learn more: Capital One Venture Rewards

Related: Why the Citi Rewards+ is great for college students

For rates and fees of the Delta SkyMiles Gold card, click here .